Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon is a simple yet delicious dish that brings fresh flavors to your table. With its tender, flakey texture and rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of sides, making it a versatile favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon because it’s packed with flavor and incredibly healthy. Salmon is well-known for its omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain. This dish is quick to prepare, taking just under 30 minutes from start to finish! The combination of garlic, lemon, and rosemary adds a wonderful aroma and taste that will impress your family and friends.
How to Make Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients:
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon filets
- Butter spray (we used “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter”)
Directions:
- Preheat the grill and spray a grill pan liberally with butter spray (or nonstick spray).
- In a small bowl or mortar and pestle, combine the garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Crush the garlic and rosemary into the lemon juice to create a paste.
- Spread the garlic paste over each piece of salmon, using it all. Allow the salmon to chill in the fridge for 20 minutes with the paste on top.
- Remove the salmon from the fridge and spray each piece with butter spray about four times.
- Flip the salmon over so that it’s skin side up on the grill pan, and spray the bottom of each piece with more butter spray.
- Grill the salmon, covered, for 4-5 minutes. Then flip each salmon filet, spray again with butter spray (about 2 sprays per filet), and cover again, cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes.
- Once the salmon is fully cooked through (it will be flakey and have an internal temperature of at least 145°F), remove it from the grill and serve.
How to Serve Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon
Serve your Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon hot off the grill! It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes. You can also add a slice of lemon on each plate for an extra zing.
How to Store Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Tips to Make Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon
- Make sure to use fresh salmon for the best taste.
- Let the salmon marinate in the garlic paste longer if you have time, as this increases the flavor.
- Be cautious when grilling; do not overcook the salmon to preserve its moisture and texture.
Variation
You can switch up the herbs in this recipe! Try using dill or parsley instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile. Additionally, a touch of honey or maple syrup can be added to the garlic paste for a sweet twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before following the cooking instructions.
2. What if I don’t have a grill?
You can make this recipe in the oven or on a stovetop pan. Just use a nonstick skillet and cook on medium heat for a similar result.
3. How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon with your loved ones!
Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients
Marinade
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Salmon
- 4 pieces (6-ounce) salmon filets
- to taste Butter spray (like ‘I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter’) Used for grilling the salmon.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the grill and spray a grill pan liberally with butter spray.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create a paste.
- Spread the garlic paste over each piece of salmon and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Grilling
- Remove the salmon from the fridge and spray each piece with butter spray about four times.
- Flip the salmon so it’s skin side up on the grill pan, and spray the bottom of each piece with more butter spray.
- Grill the salmon, covered, for 4-5 minutes, then flip and spray again with butter spray, cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes.
- Check for doneness; the salmon should be flakey and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Once cooked, remove from the grill and serve.
