Introduction
Grilling salmon is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful fish. However, it can be daunting to know how long to grill salmon for to get it just right. Overcooked salmon can be tough and dry, while undercooked salmon can be a food safety risk.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about grilling salmon. We’ll cover the best techniques, timing, and temperature to grill salmon to perfection. Whether you’re a grill master or a beginner, you’ll find this guide helpful for cooking up juicy and mouthwatering salmon on the grill.
A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Grill Juicy and Tender Salmon in Under 20 Minutes
Grilling salmon can be quick and easy, especially if you follow a few basic steps. Here’s our step-by-step guide to grilling juicy and tender salmon in under 20 minutes:
Preparing the grill and the fish
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, prepare your salmon by rinsing it with cold water and patting it dry with a paper towel. Remove any pin bones and scales with a pair of tweezers.
Seasoning the salmon
Next, season the salmon to your liking. You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, or add more flavor with a marinade or dry rub. A popular marinade for salmon is soy sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Apply the seasoning generously to both sides of the fish.
Grilling techniques
When the grill is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill grates. Place the fillets at a 45-degree angle to the grates to get those signature grill marks. Close the grill lid and let the salmon cook undisturbed for 4 to 6 minutes.
After 4 to 6 minutes, use a spatula to carefully flip the salmon fillets over onto the flesh side. Close the lid and grill for an additional 4 to 6 minutes.
Timing and temperature
The timing and temperature for grilling salmon depend on several factors, including the thickness of the fish and the level of doneness desired. As a general rule, you can grill salmon for 8 to 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
Check the salmon for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The salmon is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Alternatively, you can tell if the salmon is cooked by pressing on it lightly with your finger. The fish should feel firm and just start to flake.
Resting the salmon
Once the salmon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a juicier and tastier fish.
Serving suggestions
Grilled salmon is delicious on its own or served with a variety of sides. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or grilled asparagus. You can also make a simple garlic butter sauce to drizzle over the fish for added flavor.
The Top 3 Factors that Impact How Long You Should Grill Your Salmon For
There are several factors that can impact the grilling time for salmon. Here are the top three:
The thickness of the fish
The thicker the salmon fillet, the longer it will take to grill. As a rule of thumb, you can grill salmon for 8 to 10 minutes per inch of thickness. If your salmon is thinner, reduce the grilling time accordingly.
The temperature of the grill
The temperature of your grill also affects the grilling time for salmon. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking your salmon. If the heat is too low, the salmon will take longer to cook and may not brown properly.
The level of doneness desired
The longer you grill salmon, the more well-done it will be. If you prefer your salmon to be rare or medium-rare, reduce the grilling time to 6 to 7 minutes per inch of thickness. If you like your salmon well-done, increase the grilling time to 10 to 12 minutes per inch of thickness.
Recipe: Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce – Perfectly Grilled Salmon Every Time!
Here’s a delicious recipe for grilled salmon with a garlic butter sauce. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how flavorful the salmon turns out!
Ingredients and preparation
- 4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the garlic butter sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rinse the salmon fillets with cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Brush the fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking instructions
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill grates and grill with the lid closed for 4 to 6 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets over onto the flesh side and grill for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
To make the garlic butter sauce, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the pan and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the fillets and serve immediately.
Tips for serving and garnishing
You can serve the grilled salmon with steamed vegetables and a side of rice for a complete meal. Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh parsley or lemon wedges for added flavor and presentation.
How to Tell If Your Salmon is Fully Cooked on the Grill – Tips from a Pro
It’s important to ensure that your salmon is fully cooked on the grill to avoid any food safety risks. Here are some tips on how to tell if your salmon is fully cooked:
Visual cues
The flesh of the salmon should be opaque and flaky when fully cooked. The skin should be crispy and easy to remove.
Temperature tests
You can also check the internal temperature of the salmon with an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The salmon is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Cutting into the fish
If you’re unsure whether your salmon is fully cooked, you can also cut into the thickest part of the fillet. The flesh should be slightly pink and flaky, but not translucent or raw.
Grilling for Beginners: How Long Do You Grill Salmon? A Comprehensive Guide for Newbies
If you’re new to grilling, don’t worry – grilling salmon is easier than you think! Here are some tips for beginners:
Choosing the right salmon
When selecting salmon, choose fillets that are firm, shiny, and free of bruises or discoloration. You can buy salmon fresh or frozen, depending on what’s available and your preferences.
Basic grilling techniques
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grease the grates with cooking spray or oil. Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and olive oil or your favorite marinade. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and grill with the lid closed for 4 to 6 minutes. Flip the salmon over and grill for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Common mistakes to avoid
Some common mistakes when grilling salmon include overcooking, undercooking, and not properly seasoning the fish. To avoid these mistakes, follow the timing and temperature guidelines and season the salmon to your liking.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I grill salmon with the skin on or off?
- Yes, you can grill salmon with the skin on or off. However, grilling with the skin on can help keep the fish moist and prevent it from sticking to the grill grates.
- Can I grill salmon on a cedar plank?
- Yes, grilling salmon on a cedar plank can add a smoky and woodsy flavor to the fish. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour before using it on the grill.
- Do I need to flip the salmon when grilling?
- Yes, you should flip the salmon over onto the flesh side halfway through grilling for even cooking.
Conclusion
Now that you know how long to grill salmon for and how to grill it to perfection, it’s time to put your skills to the test! Experiment with different seasonings, marinades, and serving suggestions to find your favorite way to enjoy grilled salmon. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be grilling up juicy and delicious salmon in no time.
