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Lemon Grilled Salmon Recipe

Smoky, citrusy, and full of flavor, this Lemon Grilled Salmon is a summer favorite that’s easy to master. With a bright lemon marinade, tender flaky texture, and just the right amount of char, this dish is perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or a healthy date-night meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Outdoor grill or grill pan
  • Tongs or fish spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Basting brush (optional)
  • Instant-read thermometer (recommended)

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), preferably skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Grilling:

  • 1 lemon, halved
  • Extra olive oil for brushing

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tablespoon honey or Dijon mustard (for a sweeter/tangy twist)
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes or smoked paprika

Instructions
 

Marinate the Salmon

  • In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs. Add honey or mustard if using. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or bag and pour marinade over. Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes (no more than 1 hour).

Prepare the Grill

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high (400°F/200°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Salmon

  • Remove salmon from marinade and pat dry slightly.
  • Brush with a little oil.
  • Place skin-side down on the grill.
  • Grill for 4–6 minutes without moving until it easily releases.
  • Flip gently and grill for 2–4 minutes more, or until internal temp reaches 125–130°F (52–54°C).

Grill the Lemon Halves

  • While salmon grills, place lemon halves cut-side down on grill for 2–3 minutes until charred.

Serve & Garnish

  • Let salmon rest 3–5 minutes. Drizzle with grilled lemon juice and a touch of olive oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and extra lemon zest.

Notes

  • Skin-on fillets help hold the salmon together while grilling and create delicious crisp texture.
  • Don't skip patting dry before grilling—it helps avoid steaming and promotes browning.
  • Use grilled lemon instead of raw for a mellow, sweet citrus finish.
  • Add a pesto drizzle or yogurt sauce for extra flair.
  • Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers make great additions to salads, tacos, pasta, or grain bowls.
Keyword citrus salmon, Easy salmon recipe, grilled fish, healthy BBQ main, lemon grilled salmon, salmon with lemon, summer salmon recipe