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Best Grilled Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter – Easy 20-Minute Dinner

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This best grilled salmon with lemon garlic butter is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that tastes like a special occasion. With a crispy, caramelized exterior and tender, flaky interior, it’s finished with a bright, rich butter sauce that makes it absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, about 1-inch thick
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for oiling grates and coating salmon)
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest (about 1 teaspoon), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well incorporated. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Turn your grill to high heat (450°F to 500°F). Close the lid and let it preheat for at least 10-15 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets extremely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  4. Oil the Grates: Dip a folded paper towel in a little vegetable or avocado oil. Using long tongs, carefully rub the oiled paper towel over the hot grill grates. Repeat 2-3 times.
  5. Grill the Salmon (First Side): Place the salmon fillets on the hot grill, skin-side down (or presentation-side down if skinless). Lay them diagonally across the grates. Close the lid and cook for 4-6 minutes without touching. The fish is ready to flip when the edges look opaque and the fillets release easily.
  6. Flip and Baste: Using a fish spatula, gently flip the fillets. Immediately top each fillet with a generous dollop of the lemon garlic butter. Close the lid and cook for another 3-5 minutes, depending on thickness (total cook time for 1-inch fillet: 8-10 minutes).
  7. Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. For best results, use an instant-read thermometer: 125°F for medium-rare, 130°F for medium, 135°F for well-done.
  8. Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled salmon to a serving platter. Spoon any remaining butter over the top. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the salmon extremely dry for the best sear. Resist the urge to move the fish until it releases easily. Add the butter right after flipping to prevent it from burning. For juiciest results, pull salmon at 125°F and let it rest. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon, lemon garlic butter, easy salmon recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy salmon, keto salmon, gluten-free salmon

Find it online: https://islatable.com/best-grilled-salmon-with-lemon-garlic-butter-easy-20-minute-dinner/