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There is something absolutely magical about the flavors that come together in this Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe. Perfectly tender, flaky salmon filets are enhanced with a vibrant garlic and rosemary paste, kissed by a bright splash of lemon, and finished with a buttery spray that gives every bite a luscious richness. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking to wow your family with a simple yet impressive dinner, this dish is a shining example of how fresh, quality ingredients and straightforward techniques can create restaurant-worthy results right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to bring out the best in the salmon. Each element plays a key role, from the sharp zing of lemon juice to the earthy freshness of rosemary, creating a beautiful balance of flavors and aromas.
- Minced garlic: Two cloves deliver that signature garlicky punch that brightens the whole dish.
- Lemon juice: One tablespoon from half a lemon adds a refreshing citrus tang that cuts through the richness of the butter and fish.
- Fresh rosemary: One tablespoon finely minced, lending a fragrant, woodsy note that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Coarse sea salt: One teaspoon enhances the natural flavors and helps season the fish perfectly.
- Ground black pepper: Half a teaspoon for just the right amount of gentle heat.
- Salmon filets: Four 6-ounce pieces, chosen fresh or thawed for optimal juiciness and texture.
- Butter spray: We used “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter” to add that silky, buttery finish without overwhelming the grill.
How to Make Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill and Pan
Heat your grill to the right temperature and give your grill pan a generous spray of butter or nonstick spray. This ensures the salmon won’t stick and helps build that gorgeous, slightly crispy exterior we all crave.
Step 2: Create Your Flavorful Garlic Paste
Combine minced garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or use a mortar and pestle for a more rustic approach. Crush the garlic and rosemary into a bright, aromatic paste that will infuse the salmon with unforgettable flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Salmon
Spread the garlic paste over each salmon filet, making sure every inch is covered in this flavorful coating. Place the salmon in the fridge for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and penetrate the fish, preparing it perfectly for the grill.
Step 4: Apply Butter Spray Before Grilling
Once chilled, remove the salmon and spray each piece liberally with butter spray. This step locks in moisture and adds that rich buttery finish as the salmon grills.
Step 5: Position the Salmon and Add More Butter
Place the salmon filets skin side up on the butter-sprayed grill pan. Don’t forget to spray the bottom of each filet with more butter spray, ensuring every side has that delicious buttery touch.
Step 6: Grill to Perfection
Grill with the lid covered for about 4 to 5 minutes, then flip the salmon. Spray again with butter spray and cover once more, letting it cook for an additional 6 to 8 minutes. The salmon should be flaky and reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe and perfect doneness.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove the salmon from the grill once fully cooked and get ready for a meal that’s bursting with fresh, buttery, garlicky goodness.
How to Serve Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges highlight the salmon’s vibrant flavors without overpowering them. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a scattering of toasted pine nuts adds delightful texture and nuance.
Side Dishes
Think bright and fresh when choosing sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, grilled asparagus, or a fluffy herb-infused rice pilaf all make perfect companions. Roasted baby potatoes or a tangy cucumber-dill salad also shine alongside this salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve the salmon on a wooden plank or a large platter surrounded by colorful vegetables or lemon slices. Layering the salmon atop a bed of wilted spinach or quinoa adds visual appeal and bursts of flavor with every bite, elevating your presentation beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover salmon in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for a tasty second meal.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the grilled salmon, wrap each filet tightly with plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps your salmon fresh for up to three months, perfect for meal prep or quick dinners later on.
Reheating
To gently reheat, place the salmon in a covered dish and warm it in the oven at 275°F until just heated through, usually about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before marinating and grilling so the flavors soak in properly and it cooks evenly.
What if I don’t have a grill pan?
A regular grill or even a cast-iron skillet works wonderfully. The key is to get that nice sear and cook the salmon with consistent heat.
Is it necessary to chill the salmon with the garlic paste?
While you can skip this step if you’re short on time, marinating for 20 minutes really lets the flavors penetrate the fish deeply, making a noticeable difference in taste.
Can I substitute rosemary with another herb?
Definitely! Fresh thyme or dill both pair beautifully with salmon, so feel free to experiment with what you love or have on hand.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The best way is to use a thermometer—145°F is the safe internal temperature. Visually, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque look.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a juicy, buttery piece of salmon that carries the bright flavors of garlic and fresh rosemary. This Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests, making it one of my all-time favorite go-tos. I can’t wait for you to try it and see for yourself just how easy and delicious grilling salmon can be.
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Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Grilled Garlic Butter Salmon is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe featuring tender salmon filets marinated in a flavorful garlic, lemon, and rosemary paste, then grilled to perfection with a buttery spray for a moist, flaky finish. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Paste
- 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
For the Salmon
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon filets
- Butter spray (we used I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the grill and spray a grill pan liberally with butter spray or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and help with browning.
- Make the Garlic Paste: In a small bowl or mortar and pestle, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Crush them together to create a smooth paste that will infuse the salmon with flavor.
- Apply Paste and Chill: Spread the garlic paste evenly over each salmon filet. Use all of the mixture to cover the fish. Place the salmon in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Salmon for Grilling: Remove the salmon from the fridge and spray each piece liberally (about 4 sprays) with butter spray to enhance moisture and flavor.
- Arrange and Spray on Grill Side: Flip the salmon so the skin side is up on the grill pan. Spray the skin side with additional butter spray to keep it from sticking and ensure a crispy skin.
- Grill First Side: Cover and grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes. This initial cooking allows the skin to crisp and the flesh to start cooking through.
- Flip and Continue Grilling: Flip each salmon filet, spray with about 2 sprays of butter spray per piece again, then cover and grill for an additional 6-8 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked, flaky, and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the grill and serve immediately for a warm, buttery, and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use fresh rosemary for the best flavor; dried herbs can alter the taste.
- Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
- Butter spray helps to keep the salmon moist and prevents sticking on the grill pan.
- Skin-on filets work best for grilling as they offer protection and crisp texture.
- Marinating the salmon for 20 minutes not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the fish.
