Grilled Salmon Recipe

Name: Grilled Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 145 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds salmon fillets; lemon pepper to taste; garlic powder to taste; salt to taste; 0.33333334326744 cup soy sauce; 0.33333334326744 cup brown sugar; 0.33333334326744 cup water; 0.25 cup vegetable oil

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 pounds salmon fillets
Lemon pepper, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
Salt, to taste
cup soy sauce
cup brown sugar
cup water
cup vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients youll need for the recipe.

Step 2: Season the salmon fillets with lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt to taste.

Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and vegetable oil. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 4: Place the salmon fillets in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the fish, seal the bag, and gently turn the fillets to coat them evenly.

Step 5: Refrigerate the salmon for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to marinate.

Step 6: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grill grate.

Step 7: Remove the salmon from the marinade and discard the marinade.

Step 8: Place the salmon fillets on the preheated grill. Cook the salmon for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 9: Serve the grilled salmon immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe	6
Calories	318
Total Fat	20g (26% DV)
Saturated Fat	3g (17% DV)
Cholesterol	56mg (19% DV)
Sodium	1092mg (47% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	13g (5% DV)
Dietary Fiber	0g (0% DV)
Total Sugars	12g
Protein	21g (41% DV)
Vitamin C	3mg (4% DV)
Calcium	27mg (2% DV)
Iron	1mg (4% DV)
Potassium	389mg (8% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Grilled Salmon Recipe

Grilled salmon, with its tender texture and rich flavor, is a popular dish that has captivated the hearts of seafood lovers around the world. This recipe features a simple soy sauce and brown sugar marinade that enhances the natural richness of the salmon. Whether enjoyed at home or in a fine dining setting, grilled salmon offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory tastes, making it a beloved choice for many. But how did this dish come to be? Lets explore its history, regional variations, and some fun facts that make grilled salmon even more fascinating.

History and Origin

The history of salmon as a culinary ingredient dates back thousands of years, particularly in the regions where this fish is abundant. Indigenous cultures in North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, have been harvesting wild salmon for centuries. The practice of grilling salmon, however, became more widespread as techniques for preserving and cooking fish evolved. Grilling, one of the oldest methods of cooking, became popular due to its simplicity and ability to bring out the fishs natural flavors. With the rise of soy sauce and the blending of various international cuisines, the combination of soy sauce and brown sugar became a staple in modern grilling techniques, giving rise to the savory-sweet grilled salmon we know today.

Regional Features and Variations

Grilled salmon recipes can vary widely depending on the region. In the Pacific Northwest of the United States and Canada, where salmon is plentiful, the fish is often grilled simply with salt, pepper, and herbs, allowing the natural flavors to shine. In Asia, particularly in Japan, salmon is sometimes marinated in miso or teriyaki sauce before grilling, adding an additional layer of flavor with the sweet and salty profile. In Scandinavian countries, such as Sweden and Norway, salmon is traditionally smoked or cured, but grilling has become a common method of preparation in recent years. Depending on the region, side dishes and garnishes also changefrom roasted vegetables in North America to rice and pickled vegetables in Asia.

Distinction from Similar Dishes

Grilled salmon is often compared to other grilled fish dishes, but what sets it apart is its unique texture and flavor. Salmon, with its fatty content, tends to remain moist and tender when grilled, unlike leaner fish such as cod or haddock, which can dry out. Additionally, salmon is often marinated in ingredients like soy sauce and brown sugar, which creates a caramelized exterior during grilling, further differentiating it from other fish dishes. While grilled tuna or swordfish steaks are also popular, they typically have a firmer texture and require different marinades or cooking times.

Where It Is Usually Served

Grilled salmon is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. It is commonly found at seafood restaurants, particularly in coastal regions where fresh fish is readily available. Its also a popular dish for summer BBQs and picnics, where the fish is grilled outdoors over an open flame, adding a smoky flavor. Many health-conscious individuals choose grilled salmon for its nutritional benefits, often pairing it with light sides such as salads, roasted vegetables, or quinoa. This dish is also commonly served in upscale restaurants, where it may be paired with a fine wine or a light, refreshing cocktail.

Interesting Facts about Grilled Salmon

Health Benefits: Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
Sustainability: Wild-caught salmon is often considered more sustainable than farmed salmon, though its important to source it responsibly from fisheries that follow eco-friendly practices.
Varieties of Salmon: There are several different species of salmon, including King, Sockeye, and Coho, each with its own distinct flavor profile. King salmon, for example, is the fattest and most flavorful, making it ideal for grilling.
Grilling Techniques: When grilling salmon, its important to cook it skin-side down to prevent it from falling apart. Some chefs recommend wrapping the fish in foil to keep it moist during grilling.
Global Appeal: While salmon is native to the Northern Hemisphere, it has become a globally popular dish, appearing in cuisines from North America to Japan and beyond.

Grilled salmon is not just a meal; its a culinary experience steeped in history, regional traditions, and global influences. Whether youre grilling it at home for a family dinner or enjoying it at a fine-dining restaurant, this dish brings together flavors and cultures from around the world. So next time you fire up the grill, remember the rich heritage and unique characteristics that make grilled salmon a true culinary treasure.

FAQ about Grilled Salmon Recipe

Leftover grilled salmon should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 2-3 days. To maintain moisture, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the container.

Yes, you can freeze grilled salmon. Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

Yes, this marinade can work well with other types of fish, such as trout, tilapia, or cod. Keep in mind that the cooking time might vary depending on the thickness and type of fish you use.

For the best flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 2 hours. However, if you have more time, marinating for up to 8 hours will enhance the flavor even further. Avoid marinating longer than 12 hours to prevent the fish from becoming too salty.

Yes, you can bake the salmon instead of grilling. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated salmon on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

To reheat grilled salmon, place it in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, covering the salmon to retain moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the fish dry.

Grilled salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some great options include roasted vegetables, steamed rice, quinoa, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a light sauce like tzatziki or a citrus dressing.

If you prefer a spicier marinade, try adding chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the marinade. For extra depth of heat, you could also mix in some minced fresh ginger or garlic.

Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time. Simply mix all the ingredients and store the marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to use, just add the salmon and marinate as instructed.

If you don't have lemon pepper seasoning, you can make a simple substitute by mixing lemon zest with black pepper, or use regular black pepper and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to achieve a similar flavor.

Comments

Jeffrey Taylor

07/03/2024 12:22:30 AM

This has become a must-have in our low-fat household. I opted for olive oil instead of vegetable oil, and the results were fantastic. Plus, the leftovers can be quickly sautéed in a bit of olive oil and fresh lemon juice, and they taste even better the next day! Don't forget to try it with the Dill Sauce recipe - delicious!

Angela Gonzalez

12/30/2022 11:11:15 AM

Great recipe! Make sure to use plain Lemon Pepper instead of Lemon Pepper Seasoning Salt to avoid oversalting. If grilling isn't an option, you can bake it in a 450-degree oven for 12 minutes and then broil for 5 minutes. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar enhances the flavor of the salmon beautifully.

Christine Miller

06/24/2024 04:02:09 AM

Every time I make salmon, I have a go-to method that never fails. I create individual foil packets for each fillet, sealing them up with a bit of space for air circulation. Baking these packets on a cookie sheet at 425 degrees for around 15 minutes (adjusting slightly for more fillets) results in perfectly cooked salmon every time! It's a fantastic recipe for preparing salmon in foil packets, as it delicately poaches the fish in its own juices, yielding tender and delicious results consistently.

Deborah Allen

02/08/2024 01:16:10 AM

Whenever I prepare salmon, I swear by this recipe! I used to steer clear of fish, but this recipe delivers such deliciously seasoned salmon that even non-fish lovers will be hooked. As a fan of spicy food, I like to enhance the marinade with around 3 tablespoons of fiery toasted sesame oil and 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha. Taking the advice of other reviewers, I grill the salmon on medium heat: starting with the skin side down on foil for 6-8 minutes, then flipping it flesh side down onto the hot grill. By peeling off the foil, the skin comes off effortlessly. Grilling for an additional 6-8 minutes gives the fish a moist and flavorful finish, with tasty grill marks infused with caramelized soy sauce.

Elizabeth King

12/27/2024 12:26:12 PM

We received a 36 oz salmon fillet caught by my nephew in a river in southwest Washington State. He had it quickly frozen. Upon returning home, I defrosted it to prepare for my family, which included my 6 and 8-year-old grandchildren. I knew that serving plain salmon with just lemon might be a tough sell, so I decided to try out this recipe. To my delight, it was a hit! I adjusted the ingredient quantities to match the larger fillet size, but followed the recipe as instructed otherwise. My husband grilled it on foil for about 15 to 20 minutes, leaving the fillet whole. The result was incredibly moist and flavorful. Thank you for this wonderful recipe!

Larry Roberts

08/09/2023 08:51:29 PM

This meal was absolutely perfect! I marinated two salmon fillets for several hours, then seared each side for 2 minutes before finishing them in a foil pouch for 5 minutes in a preheated 400-degree oven. I served the salmon with cubed sweet potato, beets, and roasted sweet onion. Delicious!

Robert Perez

09/26/2024 12:46:55 PM

I absolutely adore this recipe - it's straightforward and speedy. I bake mine at 400F for approximately 10-12 minutes.

Christopher Anderson

08/20/2024 01:22:02 AM

Substituted olive oil for vegetable oil and enhanced the marinade with 2 tsp of minced ginger and 2 tsp of chili garlic sauce. Reduced the amount of brown sugar by half and skipped the salt due to the soy sauce's saltiness. Prefer not to marinate for the full time, but always make slashes in the salmon for better absorption. Broiled the salmon for approximately 10 minutes and paired it with Israeli couscous and steamed vegetables.

Cynthia Jackson

07/27/2024 03:25:29 PM

Delicious! Instead of grilling the fish per the instructions, I opted to bake it in the oven with the marinade at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. I covered it for 30 minutes and then uncovered it for an additional 15 minutes. I also included a 1/4 tablespoon of teriyaki sauce. My family absolutely adored it! Both my boyfriend and kids aren't accustomed to fresh fish, but they are slowly but surely getting accustomed to it. This recipe has been the most successful one yet, as there were no complaints from them afterwards.

Alexander Moore

07/10/2024 07:26:51 AM

I have been preparing this recipe for years, and the only modification I make is leaving out the lemon pepper (it's a personal preference). Instead, I add 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke and follow the rest of the recipe as written. I marinate the salmon for 3 hours, then bake it in a 450-degree oven for 12 minutes, followed by a 5-minute broil. I use the marinade to make a glaze with cornstarch. This is the only way my husband enjoys salmon. The flavor is fantastic - a perfect blend of smokiness and sweetness!

Ryan Nguyen

02/11/2024 11:40:01 AM

Great! The salmon grills perfectly and blackens nicely on the grill plate.

Kimberly Campbell

03/18/2024 08:41:29 PM

Oh my goodness! We make this recipe regularly, at least once every two weeks! I prefer to prepare it in the air fryer at 380 degrees for about 15 minutes for two small/medium salmon pieces, more or less. The result is absolutely delicious! I recommend marinating for a few hours before cooking, and I enjoy serving it with a Caesar salad.

Carol Collins

12/07/2024 04:35:52 PM

The brown sugar created a delicate glaze on the salmon while cooking. Absolutely delicious.

David Nguyen

12/02/2022 12:59:11 PM

Family did not enjoy the marinade.

Patrick Moore

11/30/2023 05:43:22 AM

Fantastic recipe!!! This is hands down my favorite way to prepare salmon! My husband absolutely loved it too, and now we even use the marinade for shrimp. 😊

Dorothy Edwards

06/26/2024 07:47:26 PM

This product is amazing! Despite its simple ingredients, it has an outstanding flavor! I marinated it for a whole day and it turned out juicy and tender on the grill!

Joseph Edwards

10/11/2024 07:32:53 AM

Excellent Recipe! I utilized a homemade marinade consisting of olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and lemon juice - it enhanced the flavor beautifully and ensured the salmon stayed moist. I will definitely be making it again.

Susan Allen

07/30/2023 05:24:45 AM

I tried a homemade marinade for the grilled salmon dish, and it was absolutely delicious! The flavors were harmonious, and the salmon was cooked to perfection. My family loved it, and I will definitely be preparing it again.

Nicholas Brown

02/18/2025 06:11:09 AM

I absolutely loved this grilled salmon recipe! I used the basic ingredients for the marinade but added some fresh herbs from my garden - dill and a hint of rosemary. The salmon was incredibly moist with a wonderful caramelized crust. The homemade marinade enhanced the flavors of the fish beautifully without being too overwhelming. My family couldn't stop praising it and has already asked me to make it again next weekend. This recipe is definitely a keeper for our summer grilling sessions!

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