Grilled salmon fillet is a simple yet delicious dish that's perfect for a healthy meal. The salmon gets a beautiful smoky flavor from the grill, while staying juicy and tender on the inside. Here’s a recipe for a perfectly grilled salmon fillet:
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6-8 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or dill (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Prepare the marinade:
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme (or dill), paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Marinate the salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides of the fillets generously with the marinade. Let the salmon sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while the grill heats up.
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Preheat the grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Make sure the grates are clean, and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
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Grill the salmon:
- Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillet. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork but still moist on the inside.
- For skin-on fillets, grill the skin side longer to get it crispy before flipping.
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Serve:
- Remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a minute. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Tips:
- Avoid overcooking: Salmon cooks quickly. Keep an eye on the fillets to ensure they don’t dry out. The internal temperature should reach about 125-130°F (51-54°C) for medium-rare.
- Skin-on vs. Skinless: Skin-on fillets help keep the salmon moist and are easier to handle on the grill. The skin can be removed easily after grilling if preferred.
- Flavor Variations: Add extra herbs like parsley or cilantro, or season the salmon with a bit of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Grilled salmon fillets pair beautifully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or grains like quinoa or rice for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
