Grilled salmon is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick meal. This recipe combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with a citrusy marinade to enhance its natural taste. Cooking the salmon on the grill gives it a light smokiness, while keeping the fish moist and tender. It's a great dish for busy weeknights or summer BBQs and pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables or a side of rice.
Prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the salmon. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon and let it sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature while the grill heats up.
Preheat the grill. Set your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Grill the salmon. Place the marinated salmon fillets, skin-side down, on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should easily flake with a fork and have nice grill marks.
Serve. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill and garnish with fresh dill and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
For added flavor, marinate the salmon for up to 30 minutes if you have extra time. If you prefer a smoky taste, try adding wood chips to your grill for more depth. Don’t overcook the salmon; remove it from the grill when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the best texture. If you don’t have a grill, this recipe works well in a grill pan or under the broiler.