Unlock the secrets to perfectly grilled salmon with our detailed guide. From selecting the best salmon to mastering grill temperature and timing, this resource covers everything you need to achieve succulent, flavorful fish every time. Ideal for both beginners and experienced grillers, our guide provides easy-to-follow steps, essential tips, and expert techniques to ensure your salmon turns out tender and delicious. Elevate your grilling game and enjoy a mouthwatering, healthy meal with our comprehensive tips for grilling the best salmon.
Ingredients
4 skin-on salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each)
2 tablespoons grape seed oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Delicious Sauces to Complement Your Salmon:
Cucumber Dill Sauce
Mango Fruit Salsa
Dilly Creme Fraiche Sauce
Execution
Choose Your Charcoal: Use all-natural briquettes for a cleaner burn and added flavor. Avoid lighter fluid; instead, use a charcoal chimney starter with newspaper to ignite the coals.
Preheat the Grill: After lighting the coals, let them burn until they are covered in white ash. Spread the coals evenly and preheat the grill for about 10 minutes.
Preheat the Grill: Aim for a grill temperature of 450°-500°F. This ensures a hot surface that prevents sticking and promotes a perfect sear.
Oil the Fish: Brush the flesh side of the salmon with oil. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking.
Grill Skin Side Down: Start with the skin side down to protect the delicate flesh and allow the skin to crisp up. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until the fish lightens in color and lifts off easily.
Flip Carefully: Turn the salmon over and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Additional tips
- Salmon is cooked when it reaches 145°F, but for the best texture, remove it from the grill when it hits 125°-130°F. The residual heat will continue cooking it as it rests.
- When it comes to summertime grilling, salmon is a top choice, and my husband GDawg (a seasoned grilling pro) has perfected a simple yet foolproof method. While it may not be a complex recipe, this approach ensures a moist, flavorful salmon every time. It’s quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty.
- For grilling salmon, quality ingredients make all the difference. While wild-caught salmon offers a more robust flavor, farm-raised salmon provides a milder taste. Wild salmon tends to be leaner, whereas farm-raised salmon has a richer, buttery texture due to higher fat content.
For more salmon recipes and grilling tips, visit BiggRecipes and explore our full range of delicious ideas. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes delivered right to your inbox!