Introduction
Grilling salmon can be a challenge for some people. It’s a delicate fish that can easily overcook or stick to the grill. However, with the right know-how, grilling salmon can be a delicious and healthy addition to your menu. In this article, we’ll provide you with step-by-step tips and tricks for grilling salmon, along with some mouth-watering recipes to try out.
Preparing the Salmon for Grilling
The first step to grilling salmon is selecting the best quality fish. When purchasing salmon, look for a bright-pink color, firm texture, and no visible blemishes or bruises. Make sure to buy the freshest salmon possible, and if it’s previously frozen, make sure it’s thawed completely in the refrigerator before grilling.
To prepare the salmon, start by removing the skin if it hasn’t been done already. Place the salmon skin-side down on a cutting board, and using a sharp knife, cut through the flesh at one end of the fillet. Hold that end down with your non-knife hand, and slice the knife between the skin and flesh of the salmon, using a gentle sawing motion. Repeat until all of the skin is removed.
Next, check the salmon for any pin bones. Using a pair of pliers or tweezers, gently pull out any bones you come across. Run your fingers over the salmon to make sure you’ve removed them all.
Grilling the Salmon
The type of grill you use will impact how you grill your salmon. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and glow evenly before you start grilling. For a gas grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. For a pellet grill, set it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill, and brush a light coating of oil on the flesh side with a pastry brush or oil-soaked paper towel. Close the lid and let the salmon cook for 6-8 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the salmon and the heat of the grill. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer – the internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
When ready, use a large spatula to carefully flip the salmon over, and let it cook on the other side for another 6-8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the salmon – it should be fork-tender and flaky. Remove the salmon from the grill onto a platter and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Common mistakes people make when grilling salmon include not having a clean and well-oiled grill, moving the salmon around too much, and not letting it rest before serving. Make sure your grill grates are clean, lightly oil them before grilling, and resist the urge to move the salmon around too much – this can cause it to stick to the grill. Finally, letting the salmon rest on the platter for a few minutes before serving will help it retain its juices and flavors.
Marinades and Seasonings
There are endless options for marinading or seasoning your grilled salmon. Homemade marinades can be as simple as olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, or as complex as a blend of herbs and spices. Store-bought marinades can offer flavor options such as teriyaki or honey mustard. A good rule of thumb is to marinate the salmon for about 30 minutes before grilling.
To apply the marinade or seasoning, place the salmon in a plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top. If using a dry rub, rub the seasoning mixture onto both sides of the salmon. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for stronger flavors.
Smoking Salmon on the Grill
Smoking salmon on the grill can add a delicious smoky flavor to your fish. To smoke salmon using a wood plank, soak the plank in water for at least an hour before grilling. Place the salmon fillet on the plank, flesh-side up, and cook indirectly on the grill for about 30-40 minutes. The wood plank will offer a smoky flavor to the salmon without direct contact with the grill grates.
If you don’t have a wood plank, you can create a foil pouch for smoking the salmon. Place the salmon in the center of a large piece of foil, and add any seasonings or marinades of your choice. Fold the foil to create an air-tight seal, and place it on the grill grates. Cook indirectly for about 15-20 minutes for a smoky flavor.
The best types of wood for smoking salmon include alder, maple, and hickory. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before placing them on the grill for optimum results.
Recipe Roundup
Now that you know how to grill salmon like a pro, let’s explore some delicious recipes to enjoy your perfectly grilled fish:
- Grilled Salmon Tacos with Mango Salsa
- Grilled Salmon Caesar Salad
- Grilled Salmon Skewers with Vegetables
- Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Butter Sauce
For the Grilled Salmon Tacos with Mango Salsa recipe, grill the salmon, and then flake it into bite-sized pieces. Serve it in corn or flour tortillas and top with mango salsa, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
The Grilled Salmon Caesar Salad recipe is simple – grill the salmon, slice it, and serve it on a bed of romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and parmesan cheese. For an added crunch, top with croutons or toasted almonds.
In the Grilled Salmon Skewers with Vegetables recipe, grill the salmon in chunks on skewers with your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Serve with a side of grilled pita bread and hummus.
Lastly, the Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Butter Sauce recipe entails a butter sauce made with melted butter, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Brush the salmon with the sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a delicious tangy finish.
Conclusion
Cooking salmon on the grill may seem intimidating at first. Still, with a few tricks up your sleeve, it can become a tasty and healthy addition to your repertoire. Remember to select the best quality salmon, prepare it correctly, and know how to use your grill. With some delicious marinades, seasonings, and recipes, you’ll have everyone begging for seconds in no time.
