Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Salmon
This Lemon Garlic Herb Grilled Salmon is juicy, flavorful, and ready in under 15 minutes. Made with fresh lemon, garlic, olive oil, and herbs, it’s a healthy grilled salmon recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or meal prep. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and perfectly tender fish every time.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets 5–6 oz each, skin-on recommended
- 1 fresh lemon zest + juice
- 2 –3 garlic cloves minced
- Flavor Base
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs finely chopped (parsley, dill, thyme, or rosemary)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Pantry Staples
- ¾ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Prep
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Brush the mixture generously over the salmon, especially the flesh side.
- Let salmon rest at room temperature for 10 minutes while preheating the grill.
- Grilling Method
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400–425°F). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
- Place salmon on the grill skin-side down. Close the lid and cook 6–8 minutes without moving.
- Carefully flip and grill another 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Doneness Check
- Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 135–140°F internally. The center should be opaque and juicy.
- Finish
- Remove from grill and rest 2–3 minutes.
- Finish with fresh lemon juice and extra herbs before serving.
Notes
- Skin-on salmon releases more easily from the grill and stays juicier.
- If salmon sticks, it’s not ready to flip—give it another minute.
- Avoid overcooking; salmon continues cooking slightly after removal.