Grilled Salmon with Lemon

This Grilled Salmon with Lemon recipe is the perfect blend of smoky, charred goodness and zesty citrus freshness! Elevate your summer grilling game with succulent salmon fillets perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavor.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

• The natural richness of salmon pairs exceptionally well with the bright and zesty flavor of lemon. The combination creates a perfect harmony that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• The citrusy zing from lemon adds a balanced acidity. This not only brightens the flavor but can also cut through the richness of the fish, offering a well-rounded taste experience.
• Grilling salmon is a relatively quick cooking method, and adding lemon is a simple way to elevate the dish without requiring complex ingredients or lengthy preparation. It’s a convenient option for busy schedules.

Do You Have to Remove the Skin?

Cooking salmon with the skin on can help to add flavor and keep the fish moist. The skin will also protect the flesh of the salmon while it cooks, this helps prevent it from over-cooking or drying out.

Do You Have to Use Foil

You don’t have to use foil. You can also use a grill rack/ pan. Using foil provides a barrier between the salmon and the open flame, reducing the risk of flare-ups. It also makes for easy cleanup because you can simply throw it away when you are done.

How to Make Grilled Salmon with Lemon

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Place the fish on a piece of foil or rack. Rub both sides of the fish with olive oil and lemon juice then sprinkle the spices onto both sides of the fish.
2. Place the fish on the grill and cook.

Grill Temperature

You should set the grill to medium-high heat, which is around 375 to 400 degrees. This temperature range allows for thorough cooking without drying out the salmon.

Charcoal or Gas Grill

You can use either in this recipe. A gas grill has a much faster set-up time and it’s easier to adjust to a precise temperature when cooking. Some prefer a charcoal grill because it will provide a deeper smoky flavor for the fish.

How to Tell When Salmon Has Finished Cooking

• Temperature: Use a meat thermometer and ensure the fish has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees. Check the temperature in the thickest part of the fish.
• Appearance and Touch: Perfectly cooked salmon will have a light pink color and will be opaque throughout. The flesh will also start to flake when pressed with a fork.
• It’s important to note that salmon can be cooked to varying degrees of doneness, some people prefer it cooked through while others prefer it medium-rare at 135 degrees. Decide what works for you.

Dry and Overcooked Salmon

When the fish is done, it will be a translucent pink in the middle. It should also look flaky. You can check out more tips on How to Tell if Salmon is Overcooked here.

More Ways to Season the Fish

• BBQ Rub and Seasoning
• Cajun Seasoning
• Roasted Garlic
• Lemon Pepper
• Cayenne
• Dill
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Cumin
• Chili Powder
• Honey
• Balsamic Vinegar

How to Store It

Store the salmon tightly covered in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Freezer Tips

Leftovers can be frozen tightly sealed for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge.

How to Reheat

I recommend you use the air fryer or oven. If using the oven, place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the salmon with foil and place it in the oven at 275 degrees until warm.

If using the air fryer, reheat it at 200 degrees for 5-7 minutes or until warm.

If you use the microwave, be swift! Don’t leave it in too long. It will dry out the fish.

More Salmon Recipes

Baked Salmon in Foil
Brown Sugar Soy Sauce Salmon
Air Fryer Salmon (15 Minute Recipe)
Salmon Rice Bowl
Easy Salmon Bites
Cajun Salmon

Pair With These Recipes

Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Southern Crab Salad
Southern Potato Salad
Macaroni Salad