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Flaky Grilled Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter: Easy Recipe

flaky grilled salmon with lemon garlic butter - featured image

This flaky grilled salmon with lemon garlic butter is the recipe that turned a skeptic into a believer. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for entertaining, with a smoky char and tender, juicy flesh.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ΒΌ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lemon garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, chopped dill, and chopped parsley. Mix well. Add red pepper flakes if using. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Preheat the grill for two-zone cooking: heat one side to medium-high (400-450Β°F) and leave the other side on low. For charcoal, pile coals on one side.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with olive oil on both sides. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
  4. Oil the grill grates just before placing salmon on the grill.
  5. Place salmon skin-side down on the hot side of the grill, angled at 45 degrees. Close lid and cook for 3-4 minutes without moving.
  6. Flip salmon carefully using a fish spatula. Move to the cooler side of the grill, skin-side up. Immediately brush each fillet generously with lemon garlic butter. Close lid and cook for another 3-5 minutes, basting halfway through.
  7. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer: 125Β°F for medium-rare, 130-135Β°F for medium, or 145Β°F for well-done.
  8. Transfer salmon to a clean platter. Spoon any remaining butter over the top. Let rest for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Garnish with additional fresh dill and parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For best results, use fillets of similar thickness. Let butter come to room temperature before using. Don’t move salmon too early; it will release naturally when seared. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon, lemon garlic butter, easy salmon recipe, flaky salmon, summer grilling