Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon

Name: Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

I absolutely love making Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. The combination of fresh lemon and rich butter elevates the classic salmon flavor, making it irresistibly delicious. I always find that grilling brings out the best in salmon, adding a lovely smokiness that pairs perfectly with the zesty marinade. In just 30 minutes, I can put together this meal that's not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Trust me, your taste buds will be thanking you!

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:41:28.021Z

When I first grilled Lemon Butter Salmon, I was surprised by how a simple marinade could transform the dish. The secret is letting the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes before grilling—it allows those citrusy flavors to seep into the fish. I often pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Another tip is to keep an eye on the salmon while it cooks; overcooking can dry it out. I usually grill it until the center is just slightly pink, which results in perfectly flaky fish every time. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon elevates the salmon.
Rich, creamy butter sauce adds irresistible richness.
Perfectly grilled texture that is flaky and moist.

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is a crucial step in making Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon, as it infuses the fish with bright, zesty flavors that complement the natural richness of salmon. To ensure maximum flavor absorption, marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if time allows, let it sit for an hour. This not only enhances the taste but also helps keep the salmon moist during grilling. Make sure to coat the fillets evenly with the marinade for the best results.

Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients according to your taste preferences. If you're a fan of garlic, consider adding more garlic powder or even fresh minced garlic to deepen the flavor profile. Alternatively, if you're looking for a milder taste, reduce the garlic powder. The balance of acidity from the lemon juice against the rich olive oil is key for achieving succulent salmon, so don't skimp on either ingredient.

Mastering the Grilling Technique

Grilling salmon can be intimidating, but with a few techniques, you can achieve perfectly cooked fillets. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). To prevent sticking, you can either oil the grill grates or lightly coat the flesh of the salmon with oil before grilling. This step is essential for attaining those beautiful grill marks and ensures an easy flip without tearing the fish.

When grilling, keep in mind that salmon continues to cook even after being removed from the grill. Look for the flesh to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. The ideal cooking time is approximately 8-10 minutes total for a 1-inch thick fillet, depending on your grill's heat and the thickness of the salmon. If you're using thicker fillets, consider lowering the heat slightly and extending the cooking time to avoid a charred exterior.

Enhancing with Lemon Butter Sauce

The Lemon Butter Sauce is what truly elevates this dish, adding a creamy texture and an extra layer of flavor. When melting the butter, do so over medium heat to avoid browning it, which can impart a nutty flavor that might conflict with the bright lemon zest. Stir the concoction until it’s silky and the parsley is incorporated evenly, providing a fresh pop of color and taste.

For a richer variation, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce. This can deepen the flavor and add an intriguing complexity that pairs beautifully with the buttery finish. If you're looking to make the sauce ahead of time, prepare it and keep it warm in a small thermos until you're ready to serve the salmon, ensuring it maintains its velvety consistency.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Marinating the Salmon

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon fillets and ensure they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Preheating the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean to prevent sticking.

Grilling the Salmon

Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill skin-side down. Grill for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and grill for another 4-5 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.

Preparing the Lemon Butter Sauce

While the salmon is grilling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley until combined.

Serving

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade. This will give your salmon a delightful kick. Also, consider serving it with a fresh green salad for a refreshing balance.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon can be served in numerous ways. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of grilled vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini, which will complement the bright flavors of the dish. A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon, enhancing your dining experience.

If you're hosting a dinner, make this dish the centerpiece and serve it alongside some roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto. These sides can help soak up any remaining lemon butter sauce, adding even more flavor to your meal. I often like to add a slice of lemon on the side for an extra citrusy kick, which guests can apply as desired.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave at half power to prevent the salmon from drying out. If you prefer, you could also reheat on a skillet over low heat, covered with a lid to retain moisture. The drizzle of fresh lemon butter sauce can be added back on top for an extra touch of flavor.

For best results, if you know you won't finish it all in a couple of days, consider freezing the grilled salmon. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a zip-top freezer bag, where it can last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best possible texture.

Dietary Considerations and Substitutions

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative or olive oil. The flavor will be slightly different, but the dish will still remain delicious and satisfying. Additionally, those watching their calorie intake can use less butter or substitute with a Greek yogurt sauce flavored with lemon and herbs on top.

If you don’t have salmon on hand, this marinade and cooking method also works well with other fish such as cod or tilapia. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fish you choose, so adjust accordingly. Always check for doneness to achieve perfectly cooked fish, irrespective of the variety you select.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What can I serve with grilled salmon?

This salmon pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in color. A meat thermometer should read 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance, just reheat it gently before serving.