Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs 🔥🍋 Smoky, Zesty, and Built for the Grill

Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs is the summer staple that never misses. It’s fast, fresh, and ultra flavorful — citrus, olive oil, and a hit of herbs bring brightness, while the grill adds just the right smokiness to rich salmon fillets.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend cookouts, or protein-packed salads.

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

  • 1–1½ lbs salmon fillets (skin-on recommended)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, dill, thyme, or basil — or a mix)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: lemon slices for grilling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Oil the grates or use a grill basket. Pat salmon dry and place skin-side down on a plate or tray.

Step 2: Make the Herb Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Brush the herb mixture generously over the salmon. Let sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes while the grill heats.

Step 4: Grill

Place salmon skin-side down directly on the grill. Close the lid and grill for 6–8 minutes. Carefully flip (or leave skin-side down if fillet is delicate) and cook another 2–4 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 125–130°F internally.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Flavor Variations

  • Add a spoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade for tang
  • Use lime juice and cilantro for a citrusy southwest twist
  • Swap olive oil for melted butter and add paprika for richness
  • Grill lemon halves cut-side down to serve as caramelized garnish

Serving Ideas

  • Over herbed rice, couscous, or quinoa
  • With grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad
  • In lettuce wraps or grain bowls
  • Alongside a cold pasta or potato salad

Pro Tips

  • Use skin-on fillets — the skin protects the flesh and gets deliciously crispy
  • Don’t overflip — one turn is enough
  • Let salmon rest 2–3 minutes off the grill before serving
  • Clean and oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking

Final Thoughts

Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs is fresh, fast, and full of flavor — smoky from the grill, sharp from the lemon, and balanced by tender herbs. It’s the kind of dish that feels light but delivers big.

Oil it. Char it. Zest it. 🔥🍋🐟

🐟 Explore Salmon Recipes for Every Occasion

From quick weeknight dinners to elegant mains, these salmon recipes cover everything from baking and grilling to bowls, pastas, and more — healthy, flavorful, and easy to make.

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🌿 Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs – Lightly charred and bright with citrusy herb flavor.
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🍚 Salmon Rice Bowl Recipes – Build-your-own bowls with veggies, grains, and sauce.
🍝 Creamy Salmon Pasta – Rich, velvety sauce with tender salmon chunks.
🍋 Salmon Pasta with Spinach or Lemon – A lighter twist with greens or zesty citrus.
🥑 Keto Salmon with Avocado – Low-carb, high-flavor, and full of healthy fats.
🍯 Honey Glazed Salmon – Sweet and savory glaze with a caramelized finish.
🧀 Stuffed Salmon with Spinach – Creamy spinach filling wrapped in perfectly baked fillets.
🍱 Asian Glazed Salmon – Soy-ginger glaze with sticky, umami-packed goodness.

🦐 More Coastal Seafood Recipes

From cozy casseroles to zesty grilled fish and elegant seafood pastas, this collection of Seafood Recipes covers every ocean-inspired craving — whether you’re planning a dinner party or a quick weeknight win.

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