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Grilling salmon can be intimidating for first-timers, but with the right techniques, you can create tender and flavorful meals.
If you’ve recently bought a new grill and want to experiment with ingredients, salmon is a great option to start with.
Our helpful guide will teach you how to grill salmon properly, preventing sticking and overcooking, and making the process quick and simple.
Learn how to grill salmon like a professional chef and make the most of your gas or charcoal grill.
Your STEP-BY-STEP Guide- How to Grill Salmon Over Gas or Charcoal
Grilling salmon over gas or charcoal is a delicious and satisfying way to cook this flavorful fish.
Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results.
Prepare Your Salmon
- Start with fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the salmon with your desired herbs, spices, and marinade. Common choices include salt, pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like dill or rosemary.
- Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.
Prepare Your Grill
- If using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). If using a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until covered with white ash.
- Oil the grates of your grill to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Grill the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down. If the fillets have skin, it’s best to place them directly on the grates for a crispy skin.
- Close the lid of the grill and let the salmon cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Flip the salmon gently with a spatula to avoid breaking the fillets.
- The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F.
Rest and Serve
- Once the salmon is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the grilled salmon hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your perfectly grilled salmon with its deliciously crispy skin and juicy, flavorful flesh.
With practice, you’ll become a grilling pro and impress your family and friends with your grilled salmon skills!
Tips for Preparing Salmon on Your Grill
Follow these tips for better results.
- Choose the Right Cuts. For grilling, you’ll want large salmon steaks or fillet cuts. It’s best to choose wild salmon that is as fresh as possible. Wild salmon has more flavor than farmed salmon, and it’s more ethical and sustainable.
- Keep the Skin On. Buy salmon with the skin on and resist the urge to remove it. The skin makes all the difference when you learn how to grill salmon. It holds the meat together and prevents sticking.
- Check for Bones. If you’re buying salmon from a supermarket or specialty grocer, the bones will likely be completely removed. However, it always pays to give the salmon a quick check before you cook it. Remove any pin bones with kitchen tweezers. Give your salmon a quick dusting with kosher salt and pepper to taste. A little goes a long way when cooking fresh wild salmon.
- Crispy or Not. There’s no real rule when it comes to this aspect of how to grill salmon to perfection. If you like crispy skin, then place your fillets on the skin side first. Make sure pieces are well spaced so that they have plenty of room to cook. Keep the steaks and fillets close to the burners or the hottest part of your charcoal grill. This will ensure consistent cooking.
- Don’t Move It. Here’s the one part of the process that will make or break your grilled salmon. Many who haven’t learned how to grill salmon will try to flip the meat too early. This is how salmon gets stuck, leaving a disintegrated mess that compromises flavor and presentation. Salmon will shrink slightly and release itself from the grill when it is ready. This usually happens in about three to four minutes with a 1-inch cut. You will see the change in size, signaling that it’s time to flip with a thin and flat spatula. Stainless steel works best. Cook the other side for an equal amount of time and remove the salmon from your grill.
- Look for White Beads on Your Salmon. If you’ve overcooked the salmon, white beads will start to appear on the outside of the cuts. If you’re nervous about cooking for the first time, start with a single piece as a test. Note the cooking time and adjust as necessary. Perfectly cooked salmon will be lightly browned on the outside and slightly pink in the center.
With these simple steps, you now know how to grill salmon to perfection.
This is a quick and simple ingredient to work with, but the results are as good as anything that you would find in a high-end restaurant.
You can serve salmon with a simple green salad and a slice of lemon.
Simpler is always better when working with this delicate and flavorful fish.
Gas vs Charcoal – Which Works Better for Grilled Salmon?
When it comes to grilling salmon, both gas and charcoal grills can produce delicious results.
However, there are some key differences between the two methods.
Let’s compare gas and charcoal grilling for salmon to determine which one may work better for you.
Gas Grilling for Salmon
- Convenience. Gas grills are generally considered more convenient as they are easy to start and control the temperature. You can simply turn a knob to adjust the heat, making it easier to maintain a consistent temperature for cooking salmon.
- Quick Heating. Gas grills tend to heat up faster compared to charcoal grills, allowing you to start cooking sooner.
- Clean and Smoke-Free. Gas grilling produces less smoke and is generally cleaner compared to charcoal grilling, which can result in less mess and easier clean-up.
- Precise Temperature Control. Gas grills usually have temperature controls that allow you to set the desired heat level, making it easier to achieve precise cooking results for salmon fillets.
Charcoal Grilling for Salmon
- Flavor. Charcoal grilling is often preferred by some for the unique smoky flavor it imparts to the salmon. The charcoal adds a distinct taste that can enhance the flavor of the fish.
- Versatility. Charcoal grills offer more versatility in terms of cooking styles, such as direct grilling, indirect grilling, and smoking, which can allow for more experimentation and customization in your grilling process.
- Traditional Charm. Charcoal grilling is often associated with a traditional, nostalgic charm, and some people enjoy the process of lighting charcoal and tending to the fire during the grilling process.
Ultimately, whether gas or charcoal works better for grilling salmon depends on personal preference and the specific cooking experience you’re seeking.
Gas grills are generally more convenient and offer precise temperature control, while charcoal grills can add a unique smoky flavor and provide more versatility in cooking styles.
Consider your preferences and priorities when choosing between gas and charcoal for grilling salmon, and experiment to find the method that works best for you!
Bottom Line – How to Grill Salmon the Right Way
In conclusion, regardless of whether you choose a gas or charcoal grill, grilling salmon can be a flavorful and delicious culinary adventure.
By following the right techniques and steps, you can achieve tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked salmon every time.
Whether you prefer the convenience and precise temperature control of a gas grill or the smoky flavor and versatility of a charcoal grill, the key is to ensure proper preparation and cooking to bring out the best flavors in the salmon.
Experiment with different marinades, seasonings, and cooking styles to find your favorite way to grill salmon and impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering grilled salmon dish that is sure to be great.