Description
A simple, 5-ingredient grilled salmon recipe featuring a smoky herb marinade that is ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for using up summer herbs and delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or dried thyme/Italian herb blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1.5 to 2 pounds salmon fillets (about 1-inch thick, skin-on recommended)
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- Neutral oil (for grates, optional)
Instructions
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- In a small bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil to form a paste.
- Place salmon in a shallow dish or ziplock bag. Rub the marinade all over the fillets, ensuring it gets into crevices.
- Let the salmon marinate at room temperature for 10-15 minutes while you heat the grill.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (400-450°F). Clean grates and oil them generously to prevent sticking.
- Place salmon skin-side down on the grill. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the color changes halfway up the side.
- Flip fillets carefully with a thin spatula. Grill for another 4-5 minutes until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately with desired sides such as grilled asparagus, arugula salad, or rice pilaf.
Notes
Do not over-marinate as the lemon acid can change the texture. Ensure the grill is hot and oiled to prevent sticking. Patting the fish dry is crucial for a good sear. Salmon is done when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 280
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 34
Keywords: grilled salmon, smoky herb marinade, quick dinner, summer recipes, healthy seafood, 5-ingredient recipe, easy grilling