Ingredients
— The Salmon —
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or off
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
— Lemon Garlic Herb Butter —
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 teaspoons finely minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, basil, or thyme)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. **Make the Butter:** In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mash with a fork until well combined and smooth. Set aside (at room temperature so it melts easily).
2. **Prep the Salmon:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F – 400°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle the salmon on both sides with olive oil and rub it in with your fingertips. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. **Grill:** Place the salmon on the grill, skin-side down (if using skin-on). Close the lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes without moving it, until the skin is crispy and the fish releases easily from the grates.
5. Flip the salmon carefully. Grill for another 2-4 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 135°F-145°F).
6. **Serve:** Remove the salmon from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Immediately top each hot fillet with a generous scoop of the lemon garlic butter so it melts over the fish.
7. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Herb Choice: Dill and parsley are classic choices for salmon, but basil adds a wonderful fresh sweetness. Feel free to mix and match whatever you have on hand.
Don’t Overcook: Salmon can become dry quickly. Watch it closely; it is done when it changes from translucent to opaque pink and flakes gently.
Make Ahead: You can make the compound butter up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
Pan-Sear Option: No grill? No problem. Sear the salmon in a hot skillet with oil for 4-5 minutes per side, then top with the butter.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: American / Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free