Grilled Salmon with Herbs

The smoky char of perfectly grilled salmon, infused with the bright, herbaceous notes of fresh herbs… it’s a weeknight dinner that feels utterly decadent. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory waiting to happen, born from countless summer evenings perfecting the art of grilling salmon.

The Story of This Recipe / Why This Works

For years, I struggled with grilling salmon. It would either stick to the grates, flake apart into a sad, dry mess, or taste bland and lifeless. I knew there had to be a better way to prepare grilled salmon. So, I embarked on a quest, experimenting with different marinades, grilling techniques, and even types of salmon.

What I discovered was a simple, yet profoundly effective method that yields consistently moist, flaky, and flavorful grilled salmon every time. This recipe is the culmination of that journey, a testament to patience, persistence, and a whole lot of delicious trial and error.

The secret lies in a combination of high heat, a flavorful herb rub, and paying close attention to visual cues. This method ensures your salmon cooks quickly and evenly, sealing in the moisture and creating a beautiful, crispy skin. You’ll have perfectly grilled salmon that rivals any restaurant in under 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with omega-3s and lean protein.
• Incredibly Flavorful: The fresh herbs elevate the salmon’s natural taste.
• Foolproof Method: Easy-to-follow instructions guarantee perfectly grilled salmon every time.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
• Impressive: Perfect for a casual family meal or elegant dinner party.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Salmon Fillets: 4 (6-ounce/170g) salmon fillets, skin on or off (I prefer skin-on for extra crispiness)
• Fresh Herbs: ¼ cup (packed) mixed fresh herbs, finely chopped (such as parsley, dill, thyme, and chives)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt: ½ teaspoon (3g) kosher salt, or to taste
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (0.5g) freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Grill: Gas or charcoal grill (preheated to high heat)
• Grill Brush: For cleaning the grill grates
• Small Bowl: For mixing the herb rub
• Spatula: For flipping the salmon
• Instant-Read Thermometer: (optional, but recommended) To ensure doneness
• Cutting Board: For prepping the herbs and garlic
• Chef’s Knife: For mincing the herbs and garlic

How to Make Grilled Salmon (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat (around 450-500°F/232-260°C). Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush.
2. Make the Herb Rub: In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant herb rub.
3. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.
4. Season the Salmon: Brush the herb rub evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets. Ensure the salmon is coated with the herb mixture.
5. Grill the Salmon (Skin-Side Down): Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) directly on the hot grill grates. If using skinless fillets, place them directly on the grates.
6. Sear and Cook: Sear the salmon for 4-5 minutes with the grill closed, without moving it, until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step is crucial for preventing the salmon from sticking. You should see the sides starting to cook.
7. Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the salmon fillets with a spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Check for doneness by inserting the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be slightly jiggly.
8. Rest (Optional): Remove the grilled salmon from the grill and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet.
9. Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges, alongside your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent it from drying out. Err on the side of slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
• Prevent Sticking: Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. Using a high heat also helps to prevent sticking.
• Skin On vs. Skin Off: I prefer skin-on salmon for grilling, as the skin crisps up beautifully and adds flavor. However, skinless salmon also works well.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs make a huge difference in the flavor of this dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half.
• Don’t overcrowd the Grill: Make sure to leave adequate space between the salmon fillets when grilling or you can work in batches. This will ensure even cooking all around.

Variations & Dietary Swaps

• Spicy Grilled Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb rub for a spicy kick.
• Citrus Herb Salmon: Use orange or grapefruit juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
• Maple Glazed Salmon: Brush the salmon with a mixture of maple syrup and soy sauce during the last minute of grilling for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Mediterranean Grilled Salmon: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the herb rub.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
• Low-Carb/Keto: This is a naturally amazing low-carb option!
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Rosemary, oregano, or even cilantro can create unique flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

• Grilled Asparagus: A classic pairing that complements the grilled salmon perfectly.
• Quinoa Salad: A light and healthy side dish that adds texture and nutrients.
• Roasted Vegetables: Choose your favorite seasonal vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Lemon Rice: A simple and flavorful rice dish that pairs well with the citrusy salmon.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the grilled salmon.
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A creamy and subtly sweet side dish that is a great source of Vitamin A.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the salmon in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook it, or it will dry out. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the salmon rubbery.

Troubleshooting / FAQ

Final Thoughts

This grilled salmon with herbs recipe is more than just a simple dish; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures in life. The combination of flaky, flavorful salmon and fresh, fragrant herbs is a culinary masterpiece that is both easy to make and incredibly rewarding to eat.

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. Enjoy! Grilled salmon really is one of the most satisfying things to eat on a warm evening.

Related Recipes:

• For another simple seafood dinner option, try this Coconut Curry Baked Cod.
• If you love easy grilling recipes, you’ll love these Grilled Chicken Fajita Bowls.
• Looking for another recipe? Try this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes.