Grilled salmon with lemon butter is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the natural richness of the fish with a bright, tangy sauce. Perfectly grilled salmon, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, is elevated by the luxurious lemon butter, making it an ideal meal for summer cookouts or elegant dinners alike.
Key Information:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Serving size: 1 salmon fillet
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
- 4 skin-on salmon fillets (about 170g / 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 60g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method of Preparation:
Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C / 400°F). Clean the grates well and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.
Season the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Rub both sides with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for an added smoky flavor.
Grill the Salmon:
- Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down.
- Grill for 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should easily release from the grill when it's ready to flip.
- Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 52°C (125°F) for medium-rare.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- While the salmon is grilling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Serve:
- Once the salmon is done, transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce generously over the fillets.
- Garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices for a fresh touch.
Culinary Success Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Wild-caught salmon often has a richer taste and firmer flesh than farmed salmon.
- Keep the skin on when grilling – it helps to protect the delicate flesh and adds a crispy texture when seared properly.
- Don’t overcook the salmon. It should be just cooked through and flake easily but still remain moist. Use a thermometer to check for perfect doneness.
- Rest the salmon for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the fish tender.
- Enhance the lemon butter by adding a hint of fresh herbs like dill or thyme for a subtle aromatic flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I cook the salmon without the skin? Yes, you can, but grilling skin-on salmon helps keep the fish moist and prevents it from sticking to the grill. If you prefer skinless fillets, just be extra careful when flipping.
- How do I know when the salmon is cooked? The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque. For a more accurate result, use a thermometer; salmon is done when it reaches 52°C (125°F).
- Can I use bottled lemon juice for the sauce? Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for this recipe. It gives a bright, zesty flavor that bottled lemon juice can't replicate.
- What should I serve with grilled salmon? Grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad pair beautifully with this dish. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? The salmon is best served fresh off the grill, but you can make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and reheat it just before serving.
Grilled salmon with lemon butter is the epitome of fresh, simple cooking done right. The tangy brightness of the lemon butter complements the rich, tender salmon, making it a dish you’ll want to serve time and time again. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe will make any meal feel special.