Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter

Grilled salmon is a classic dish that never fails to impress, especially when paired with a luscious garlic herb butter. This recipe combines tender salmon fillets with a flavorful buttery sauce, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner to a special celebration.

Ingredients:

Garlic Herb Butter:

• 6 tbsp salted butter, softened
• 2 garlic cloves, pressed
• 2 tbsp fresh minced parsley
• 1 tbsp fresh minced dill weed

Salmon:

• 2 lbs salmon fillets, with skin on
• Salt, to taste

Directions:

Garlic Herb Butter:

1. Take butter out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to soften.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, pressed garlic, parsley, and dill weed. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Grilled Salmon:

1. Prepare the coals for the grill until ashed over and ensure the grill grate is clean. Set the coals to the lowest level away from the grill grate.
2. Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
3. Season each fillet with salt on all sides. Coat each piece generously with most of the garlic herb butter, setting some aside for topping after cooking.
4. Place each salmon fillet on the grill, skin side up first. Close the lid and cook for 3-4 minutes before flipping. Salmon will release from the grill once it’s cooked enough, so avoid moving it too soon.
5. Flip each fillet using a fish spatula, close the grill, and cook for another 4-6 minutes. A 1 1/2 – 2 inch salmon fillet will take about 8-10 minutes to cook.
6. Optionally, use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Remove from the grill at 142°F and let it rest to finish cooking.
7. Top each piece of salmon with a teaspoon of reserved herb butter while still hot.

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Serving Suggestions: Serve the Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of wild rice for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Presentation: Arrange the salmon fillets on a platter, drizzling any remaining garlic herb butter over the top. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt flakes or freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
3. Accompaniments: Consider pairing the salmon with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir to complement the dish’s richness.
4. Storage: Store any leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, being careful not to overcook to maintain its juicy texture.
5. Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover cooked salmon. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. Meal Prep: Prep the garlic herb butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows for quick assembly and grilling when ready to cook the salmon, perfect for busy weeknights or planned gatherings.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter remains flavorful, fresh, and ready to enjoy whenever you crave a delicious seafood dish.

Variations:

1. Citrus Twist: Add a zesty touch by incorporating fresh lemon or lime zest into the garlic herb butter. Squeeze a bit of citrus juice over the salmon before grilling for extra brightness.
2. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, mix a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the garlic herb butter. Adjust the amount to suit your preference for spiciness.
3. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, basil, or chives in place of or in addition to parsley and dill. Each herb brings its unique aroma and flavor profile to elevate the dish.
4. Honey Glaze: Balance the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness by brushing the salmon with a mixture of honey and melted butter during grilling. This creates a caramelized crust and adds depth to the taste.
5. Asian-Inspired Marinade: Replace the garlic herb butter with a marinade made from soy sauce, minced ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil. Let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling for an Asian twist.
6. Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon: For a smoky flavor, grill the salmon on a soaked cedar plank. Place the seasoned fillets directly on the plank and cook according to the recipe. The wood infuses a subtle, woodsy aroma into the fish.
7. Pesto Crust: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto over each salmon fillet before grilling. The pesto not only adds vibrant color but also imparts a delightful herbal flavor that pairs wonderfully with salmon.
8. Tropical Fusion: Create a Hawaiian-inspired dish by brushing the salmon with a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar before grilling. Serve with grilled pineapple slices for a tropical flair.
9. Mediterranean Style: Season the salmon with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Serve alongside a Mediterranean couscous salad or tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
10. Smoked Salmon Spread: Flake leftover grilled salmon and mix it with cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon juice, and capers to create a delicious smoked salmon spread. Serve on toasted baguette slices or crackers as an appetizer.

These variations offer creative ways to customize your Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter recipe, catering to different tastes and preferences while maintaining the dish’s essence of tender, flavorful salmon enhanced with savory and aromatic elements.

FAQs :

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter for the garlic herb butter?
   • Yes, you can use unsalted butter and adjust the salt content to your taste preference when seasoning the salmon fillets.
2. How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the grill?
   • Ensure the grill grate is clean and well-oiled before placing the salmon fillets. Starting with a hot grill and cooking the salmon skin side up first can also help prevent sticking.
3. What can I substitute for fresh herbs if I don’t have them on hand?
   • You can use dried herbs instead of fresh, but reduce the amount by about half since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, you can use herb pastes or frozen herbs.
4. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
   • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the salmon. It should reach 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, gently press the salmon with a fork; if it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s done.
5. Can I grill the salmon without the skin?
   • Yes, you can grill salmon fillets without the skin. Just be cautious when flipping them to prevent them from falling apart. Consider using a grill basket or grilling on a piece of foil for easier handling.
6. How should I store leftover garlic herb butter?
   • Store any unused garlic herb butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
7. What sides pair well with grilled salmon?
   • Grilled vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini, roasted potatoes, quinoa salad, or a fresh green salad are excellent accompaniments to grilled salmon.
8. Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can marinate the salmon in the garlic herb butter for up to 1-2 hours in the refrigerator before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish more deeply.
9. Is it necessary to let the butter soften before making the garlic herb butter?
   • Yes, softening the butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes ensures it blends smoothly with the garlic and herbs, creating a creamy and flavorful mixture.
10. Can I grill the salmon indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
    • Yes, you can use a grill pan or a regular non-stick skillet to grill the salmon indoors. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking instructions as for an outdoor grill.

These FAQs provide additional guidance and tips to help you successfully prepare and enjoy your Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter, ensuring a delicious and satisfying dining experience every time.