Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter

For a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner, this grilled salmon with garlic butter is the perfect recipe. With its crispy, golden exterior and tender, flaky inside, this dish is full of rich, buttery flavor complemented by the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a grill pan indoors, this recipe guarantees a perfectly cooked juicy salmon every time.

This simple yet flavorful recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or meal prep.

Why Make This Recipe?

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor – The garlic butter sauce enhances the salmon beautifully.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for weeknight meals, BBQs, and special dinners.

How to Make Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter

This step-by-step guide ensures your salmon stays moist, flavorful, and perfectly grilled.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F) and brush with oil to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

3. Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry and brush both sides with olive oil. Coat generously with the garlic butter sauce.

4. Grill the Salmon

Place the salmon on the grill skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (it will continue cooking off the grill).

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove the salmon from the grill, drizzle with extra garlic butter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

How to Serve Grilled Salmon

Pair your grilled salmon with these sides for a complete meal:

• Garlic mashed potatoes for a creamy balance.
• Steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables for a light and healthy touch.
• Crispy rice or quinoa for a nutritious grain pairing.
• Fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette.

How to Store Grilled Salmon

• In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 275°F for 10 minutes.

Tips to Make the Best Grilled Salmon

• Use Fresh Salmon – Wild-caught salmon offers the best flavor.
• Pat Dry Before Grilling – Helps achieve a crispy, golden crust.
• Don’t Overcook – Remove from heat when it reaches 130-135°F for perfect doneness.
• Baste with Garlic Butter – Adds extra moisture and flavor while cooking.

Variations of Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter

• Spicy Cajun Salmon – Add Cajun seasoning for a bolder kick.
• Honey Garlic Salmon – Mix honey into the garlic butter for a sweet balance.
• Lemon Herb Salmon – Use fresh dill, rosemary, or thyme for a fragrant touch.
• Asian-Inspired Salmon – Glaze with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.

FAQs

Q: Can I grill salmon without skin?

A: Yes! Just make sure to oil the grill well and flip carefully to prevent sticking.

Q: How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

A: The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F, and it should flake easily with a fork.

Q: Can I cook this recipe in a pan instead of a grill?

A: Absolutely! Use a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and cook for the same time.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent salmon from sticking to the grill?

A: Oil the grill grates well and start skin-side down. Avoid flipping too early.

Conclusion

This grilled salmon with garlic butter is the perfect quick and flavorful dinner. It’s healthy, easy to prepare, and bursting with flavor. Whether you make it for a summer BBQ or a weeknight meal, this juicy, buttery salmon is guaranteed to be a hit.

Looking for more grilling recipes? Check out Boom Recipes for more delicious ideas.

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