Perfect Grilled Salmon
This easy grilled salmon recipe walks you through exact times, heat levels, tools, and variations to cook juicy, flaky salmon perfectly every time.
Equipment
- Grill
- Meat Thermometer
- Fish Spatula
- Grill Basket (optional)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon fillets center-cut, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil plus more for grill grates
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
- 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, for flavor
Instructions
- Place salmon fillets skin side down directly on the grill. Close the lid and grill for 6–7 minutes without flipping.
- Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down directly on the grill. Close the lid and grill for 6–7 minutes without flipping.
- Flip gently and grill for another 2–3 minutes until the internal temp reaches 125°F–130°F (or 145°F if preferred fully cooked).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or your favorite sauce.
Notes
For foil wrapped salmon: Grill at same heat for 12–15 minutes without flipping. Add lemon, garlic, or herbs inside the packet for flavor boost. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness.