Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon

Name: Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (dill or parsley) for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I love making Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon because it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. The bright citrus notes from the lemon paired with the richness of the butter creates a delightful balance that enhances the natural taste of the salmon. In just 20 minutes, I can transform a simple piece of fish into a restaurant-worthy dish. This recipe is a go-to for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:34:28.136Z

When I first tried making Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how flavorful it turned out. The combination of lemon juice and melted butter creates a luscious marinade. It’s crucial to marinate the salmon for at least 15 minutes to really absorb those flavors. I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Through trial and error, I learned that using skin-on salmon helps keep the fish moist while grilling. The grill marks impart a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the zesty butter drizzle. Also, I like to sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra touch of freshness. This dish is sure to impress anyone!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of zesty lemon and rich butter enhances every bite.
Quick preparation and cooking time makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
Healthy and packed with protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

For this Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon recipe, the quality of your salmon fillets can significantly impact the final taste. Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it typically has a richer flavor and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. When selecting your fish, look for bright, moist flesh with a fresh ocean scent. If your fillets have any brown spots or a strong fishy odor, they may not be the best choice.

Fresh herbs are another essential component of this dish. Dill and parsley not only enhance the aroma but also complement the citrusy marinade beautifully. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute dried herbs, but the flavor won't be as vibrant. I recommend using half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, since dried herbs can be more concentrated.

Mastering the Grilling Technique

Grilling salmon requires attention to temperature to avoid overcooking. A medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F) is ideal for achieving perfectly cooked salmon with a slightly crisp exterior and tender inside. Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to maintain consistent heat, which helps cook the fish evenly. If you notice the edges of the fillets turning opaque, that’s a good indicator they’re getting close to being done.

To avoid the often-disastrous sticking that can occur while grilling fish, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. If using a grill pan, preheat it thoroughly before adding the salmon. I find that using a fish spatula is beneficial for flipping; its flat surface helps keep the fillets intact and makes handling much easier.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the best results:

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (dill or parsley) for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for optimal flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to grill your salmon to perfection:

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for 15 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, lightly grease with oil.

Grill the Salmon

Place the marinated salmon fillets on the grill skin-side down. Grill for 6-8 minutes, then flip and grill for an additional 4-6 minutes or until cooked through.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the grill, garnish with fresh herbs, and drizzle leftover marinade. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your perfectly grilled salmon with your favorite accompaniments!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the marinade or topping your grilled salmon with a dollop of garlic aioli.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon with complementary sides enhances the meal. Light, refreshing sides like a mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette or steamed asparagus tossed with lemon zest balance the richness of the salmon beautifully. You might also consider serving it alongside quinoa or rice to soak up the delicious lemon-butter sauce.

For a more substantial meal, consider roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts. Toss them in olive oil and sea salt, then roast until they achieve a golden-brown caramelization. The slight char and sweetness from the veggies meld nicely with the zesty salmon flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, marinating the salmon can be done up to 30 minutes before grilling. For best flavor, avoid marinating for more than 30 minutes, as the acid from the lemon juice can begin to 'cook' the fish, leading to a slightly mushy texture. However, if you have leftover grilled salmon, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, I recommend gently warming the salmon in the microwave on a low power setting to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the grill at a low temperature for a few minutes, just enough to warm it through without overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw the salmon before marinating and grilling for even cooking.

→ What sides pair well with grilled salmon?

Served with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad, grilled salmon makes for a balanced meal.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. It should ideally be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.

→ Can I cook this salmon in the oven instead?

Absolutely! Bake the salmon at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until it flakes easily.