Grilling salmon on the barbecue can result in moist, flavorful fish when done properly. With the right preparation and cooking technique, you can make restaurant-quality salmon at home. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to grill salmon to perfection on your barbecue.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets. Go for thick, center-cut pieces with the skin on for best results.
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for brushing
- Seasonings of your choice (lemon pepper, herbs, salt, garlic powder, etc.)
Prep the Salmon
- Rinse the salmon under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make sure no scales or bones are left on the fish.
- Brush both sides of the salmon lightly with oil. This prevents sticking and helps conduct heat.
- Season the salmon generously on both sides. Salmon takes well to strong seasonings.
- Optionally, you can marinate the salmon for added flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dill can infuse the salmon with flavor.
Prep the Grill
- Heat your grill on high heat. Salmon cooks fast so you want a hot grill.
- Oil the grill grates right before putting the fish on. This prevents sticking.
- If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are completely coated in gray ash before grilling.
Grill the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down first. Grill for 4-5 minutes depending on thickness.
- Resist the urge to move the fish too soon. You want a good sear to develop.
- Once you see grill marks form, flip the fish over very gently.
- Grill the other side for 3-4 minutes until cooked through but not dry. Check for flakiness.
- Move the salmon to indirect heat or edges of the grill if flare-ups occur.
Cook to Proper Doneness
- For medium doneness, the center should still look translucent pink when pierced or flake apart slightly.
- Resist overcooking as it makes the salmon dry. Salmon continues cooking after removing from grill.
- Grill thick pieces for longer (7-8 min per side) and thinner pieces for less time.
Serving and Garnish
- Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute.
- Add any garnishes like lemon wedges, chopped parsley, or capers.
- Salmon goes great with rice pilaf, grilled veggies, or greens on the side.
Tips for Best Results
- Grill salmon with the skin on for added flavor and moisture.
- Brush on a light coating of oil or mayo before grilling for extra browning.
- Sprinkle some wood chips on the coals for a smoky flavor.
- Choose wild-caught salmon for best taste and texture.
- Take the salmon off the grill when it’s 90-95% cooked through to account for carryover cooking.
Grilling salmon on a hot clean grill with some seasoning and oil results in tender, flaky fish with a delicious char. Follow these simple steps for foolproof barbecue salmon. Vary the prep and flavors to suit your taste. In no time, you’ll be an expert at grilling incredible salmon on the barbecue.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilling Salmon on BBQ
What is the best salmon to use for grilling?
The best salmon to use for grilling is a thick, center-cut fillet with the skin on. Go for wild-caught salmon if possible for the freshest taste. Good options include king, sockeye, and coho.
Should you remove the salmon skin before grilling?
It’s best to grill salmon with the skin on. The skin protects the delicate fish from sticking or falling apart. It also provides added flavor when charred over the grill. Simply do not eat the skin after cooking.
What temperature should you cook salmon to on the grill?
Aim to cook salmon to an internal temperature between 125°F-140°F on the grill for a moist, tender result. This will give you medium doneness with a hint of pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the fillet.
How long does it take to grill a salmon fillet?
A 1-inch thick salmon fillet will take about 6-8 minutes total grill time. Grill for 4 minutes skin-side down first. Flip and grill the second side for 2-4 minutes until just opaque in center. Grilling time varies by thickness – a thinner fillet may take only 2-3 minutes per side.
How do you prevent salmon from sticking on the grill?
- Use skin-on fillets and oil the grates before grilling.
- Avoid moving the fish too soon after placing on the grill.
- Brush a very light coat of oil or mayo on the fish before grilling.
- If flare-ups occur, gently move salmon to indirect heat.
What is a quick marinade for grilled salmon?
A simple 5-minute marinade for salmon is a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs. Massage the marinade into the fish before grilling for bonus flavor.
What are good flavors to pair with grilled salmon?
Salmon pairs deliciously with citrus, fresh herbs, garlic, mustard, soy sauce, brown sugar, and robust spices. Play around with marinades and rubs using these flavors. Fruit-based salsas also complement grilled salmon nicely.
Conclusion
Grilling salmon on a hot barbecue may seem intimidating but results in incredible, flavorful fish. With a few easy tips on preparation, seasoning, and grilling technique, you can make succulent salmon worth of any fine restaurant. Pay attention to the fillet thickness, oil it properly, get a good sear, and avoid overcooking. With the simple steps in this guide, you’ll be grilling salmon like a pro this summer.