Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter is a tasty dish with fresh salmon fillets cooked on the grill. Topped with a bright, buttery lemon sauce, it’s perfect for a healthy and light meal.
I like to squeeze a little extra lemon on top before serving. It makes the fish so fresh and I feel fancy even at home!
For easiest grilling, I pat the salmon dry and spray the grill with cooking spray first. It helps prevent sticking and keeps the fish beautiful.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key. I prefer wild-caught for richer flavor, but farmed works well too. Make sure they’re skin-on for easier grilling. If you want a milder taste, try Arctic char as a good substitute.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. I like adding a little zest for extra punch. If lemons are scarce, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh is best for vibrant flavor.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over saltiness. I recommend a high-quality or grass-fed butter for richer flavor. Margarine can be used if needed, but it won’t give the same depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aroma. I crush or mince it finely for even flavor. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder is okay—use half the amount because it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil helps prevent sticking and adds flavor. Use good-quality oil, but vegetable oil is a fine neutral alternative if needed.
How do I grill salmon without it sticking or falling apart?
Preheat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil, using tongs. Place salmon skin-side down and don’t move it until it releases easily, about 4-5 minutes. Flip only once to avoid breaking.
How to Make Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salmon and seasonings
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Lemon Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 15 minutes. Total: 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Brush with olive oil.
2. Make lemon butter sauce
Melt butter in a small pan. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Keep warm.
3. Preheat the grill
Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the salmon
Place salmon on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until opaque and flakey.
5. Serve the salmon
Place grilled salmon on plates. Drizzle with lemon butter sauce. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
