Grilled Salmon

Learn how to make Grilled Salmon that is moist and flakes perfectly. A delicious healthy option that everyone will love and feel good about eating.

When it comes to grilling, the first thing that comes to mind for most of us is hamburgers and hot dogs. Maybe steaks if you want to step it up a notch. Don’t get me wrong, I love all of those options too, but sometimes I like to grill something that is a little lighter. When I’m craving something healthy I can’t think of a better option than salmon.

Just like other meats, salmon is very versatile and tastes delicious when prepared correctly on the grill. All you need is some quality pieces of salmon and a grill to prepare a delicious and guilt free family dinner. 

How To Select Salmon

When selecting salmon there are two main choices: wild caught or farm raised. Wild caught salmon, as you may have guessed, is caught in the wild from either streams or the ocean. This type is known for being more flavorful due to being leaner. Farm raised salmon has a milder taste and will be fattier due to the fish not being as active.

Regardless of the type, I like to get pieces that still have the skin on them for a couple of reasons. First, it helps to keep the salmon from sticking to the grill. Secondly, it allows the fish to cook without worrying about it getting burnt. Not to mention if you are feeling adventurous, you can even eat the crispy salmon skin for a healthy snack! Just make sure all of the scales have been removed. However, if you aren’t able to find salmon with the skin on, skinless fillets will work great also. 

How To Prepare Grilled Salmon

Preparing salmon for the grill couldn’t get much easier. First, you will need to cut it into individual portions. A serving of salmon is considered to be 3-4 ounces. You could grill the whole fillet but cutting it into individual pieces will make grilling much easier and cut down on the cook time. Next, lightly oil the salmon using extra virgin olive oil. If you don’t have any on hand, you could also use canola or vegetable oil. 

Now it’s time for the seasoning. If you are someone that really likes fish and want the natural flavors to shine through, simply sprinkle it with salt and pepper. If you like bolder flavors and want to taste less of the fish flavor, use this BBQ Rub on top. It will give the salmon a delicious smoky flavor that you expect when grilling.

How To Grill Salmon

When it comes to grilling salmon, it’s actually much easier than other meats. Why? Because you don’t even have to flip it! That’s right, once you place salmon on the grill you don’t have to touch it until it’s ready to come off. To start, you will need to heat your grill to a medium-high heat. I like the grill to be between 350-400°F (176-204°C). Once the grill is to temperature, oil the grates. This will help keep the salmon from sticking and falling apart when it’s time to take it off.

Next, place the pieces of salmon over indirect heat skin side down. Once they are on the grill, close the lid and let them cook. The cook time will depend on the thickness of each piece. A good rule of thumb is 4-6 minutes per half inch of thickness. You will know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. 

Once it’s done, there are two ways to remove it from the grill. First, you can remove the skin and all by gently sliding your spatula under it and breaking it away from the grate. Second, if you don’t like the skin slide the spatula between the skin and meat removing only the fish and leaving the skin on the grill. You can come back later and clean it off. Serve immediately with your favorite vegetable or side dish.

Is Salmon Good For You?

Yes! When it comes to meat, there are few options that are better for you than grilled salmon. First, salmon is an excellent source of lean protein. Second, it is packed with omega-3’s and numerous vitamins. Third, it’s a great source of healthy cholesterol. Combine all of these and you have a delicious meat you can grill and feel good about eating.

Tips

• Use pecan wood chunks or chips to give your salmon a delicious smoky flavor.
• Only cook the salmon until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can cause it to be come dry.
• Cut your salmon into individual portions before putting on the grill. This will make it easier to get on and off the grill along with helping it cook evenly.

Side Dishes That Go With Grilled Salmon

• Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
• Stuffed Mushrooms
• Twice Baked Potatoes
• Broccoli Salad