Perfect Grilled Salmon with Lemon
A foolproof method for juicy, flaky salmon with bright citrus notes.
Key Info
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Dietary: Gluten-free, Low-carb, Keto-friendly
Equipment Needed
– Gas or charcoal grill (or broiler as alternative)
– Metal spatula
– Cutting board
– Sharp knife
– Instant-read thermometer (recommended)
– Aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (6oz/170g each), skin on
– 2 large lemons (1 sliced, 1 for juice)
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons sea salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
Optional Marinade:
– 3 tablespoons (45ml) lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 2 cloves minced garlic
Method
- Preheat grill to medium-high (375-400°F/190-200°C).
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- If using marinade:
- Whisk marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Place salmon in shallow dish.
- Pour marinade over.
- Let sit 30 minutes maximum.
- For direct grilling:
- Brush salmon with olive oil.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place lemon slices on grill.
- Put salmon on top of lemon slices.
- Grill with lid closed:
- First side: 4-5 minutes
- Second side: 3-4 minutes
- Internal temp should reach 145°F/63°C.
Crucial Tips
• Never leave salmon unattended on grill.
• Look for flesh to turn opaque pink.
• Fish should flake easily with fork.
• Don’t move salmon until it releases easily from grill.
Storage & Variations
Storage:
– Refrigerate up to 2 days
– Reheat gently to avoid drying
Common Mistakes:
– Overcooking (leads to dry fish)
– Not preheating grill properly
– Moving fish too early
Variations:
– Mediterranean: Add oregano, olives
– Asian: Swap lemon for lime, add ginger
– Herb-lovers: Add dill, parsley, chives
Remember: The key to perfect salmon is watching it closely and not overcooking. When in doubt, slightly underdone is better than overdone!
