Grilled salmon is a simple yet impressive meal that’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to backyard cookouts. A flavorful marinade made with just a handful of ingredients enhances the natural richness of the salmon while helping it stay tender and juicy on the grill. The result is beautifully flaky fish with lightly charred edges and incredible flavor in every bite.
This easy grilled salmon recipe uses a quick 5-ingredient marinade that comes together in minutes. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to make perfectly grilled salmon that’s delicious served with vegetables, rice, salads, or your favorite summer side dishes.
1. Grilled Salmon Recipe (Yield: 6 Servings)
Ingredients
- 3 lb. side of salmon, skin on
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1½ teaspoons minced garlic (1 large clove)
- 1/3 cup olive oil, plus more for brushing the grill
- 1 tablespoon minced parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by checking the salmon for any pin bones. Run your fingers gently over the surface of the fillet and remove any remaining bones with kitchen tweezers if needed. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere more evenly.
Using a sharp knife, cut the salmon crosswise into 6 equal portions. Keeping the skin attached helps hold the fish together during grilling and makes it easier to flip or remove from the grill.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until the marinade is smooth and well combined.
Place the salmon portions in a shallow baking dish or a large resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, turning each piece gently so all sides are coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes. Avoid marinating much longer, as the soy sauce can begin to change the texture of the fish.
About 15 minutes before cooking, preheat the grill to medium heat, approximately 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 205°C). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and brush them lightly with olive oil to help prevent sticking.
Remove the salmon from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Place the salmon skin-side down on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes. The skin helps protect the delicate flesh from direct heat while keeping the fish moist.
Carefully check the salmon after several minutes. The color will gradually change from deep orange to a lighter pink as it cooks upward from the bottom.
Using a wide fish spatula, gently flip each salmon portion if desired and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes. If the fillets release easily from the grill, they are ready to turn. If they stick, allow another minute before trying again.
Cook until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part. Be careful not to overcook, as salmon continues cooking slightly after being removed from the grill.
Transfer the grilled salmon to a serving platter and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish.
Sprinkle with minced fresh parsley for a pop of color if desired. Serve immediately with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, steamed rice, pasta, or a crisp green salad.
2. Tips for Perfect Grilled Salmon
Choose a salmon fillet that is similar in thickness from end to end for more even cooking.
Leave the skin on while grilling. It provides a protective layer that helps prevent the salmon from falling apart and adds extra flavor.
Preheat and oil the grill grates before placing the fish on them. A clean, well-oiled grill makes it much easier to remove the salmon without sticking.
Allow the salmon to cook undisturbed for most of the grilling time. Moving it too soon can cause the flesh to tear.
Use an instant-read thermometer for the most accurate results. Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches 145°F (63°C).
Let the grilled salmon rest briefly before serving. This helps retain moisture and improves the final texture.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for added freshness and color.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes. Thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before marinating. Pat it dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding the marinade.
How do I store leftover grilled salmon?
Allow the salmon to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy it cold in salads or gently reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Can I cook this recipe on an indoor grill pan?
Absolutely. A grill pan works well when outdoor grilling isn’t possible. Preheat the pan over medium heat and cook the salmon using the same general timing, adjusting as needed based on the thickness of the fillets.
What side dishes go well with grilled salmon?
Grilled salmon pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, corn on the cob, green beans, fresh salads, or roasted seasonal vegetables.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes. The marinade can be mixed up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a quick whisk before using it to coat the salmon.
4. Nutrition Information
Approximate nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 375 |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Total Sugar | 0.5 g |
| Total Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 80 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Potassium | 595 mg |
| Calcium | 20 mg |
| Iron | 0.8 mg |
| Vitamin D | 12 mcg |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.9 g |
This grilled salmon recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create an incredibly flavorful meal. The simple 5-ingredient marinade enhances the salmon’s natural richness while keeping the fish moist, tender, and perfectly cooked on the grill.
Keep this recipe in your collection for everything from casual family dinners to summer barbecues. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize with your favorite sides, and a delicious way to enjoy restaurant-quality grilled salmon right at home.
