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Perfect Marinated Grilled Salmon Recipe

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3.8 from 12 reviews

This Perfect Marinated Grilled Salmon recipe features tender, flavorful salmon filets marinated in a zesty blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon, and fresh herbs. Grilled to juicy perfection with clear grill marks, this dish is quick to prepare and ideal for a healthy, delicious meal.

Ingredients

Marinade Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
  • 3 Tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup)
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1 Teaspoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (plus more for topping)
  • 1 Teaspoon kosher salt
  • Black pepper to taste

Main Ingredient

  • 4 (4-6 oz) skin-on salmon filets

Instructions

  1. Marinate the salmon (1 hr): Whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the salmon and turn to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salmon for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
  2. Prep the grill: Clean the grill grates thoroughly and brush them generously with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 400-450°F (204-232°C).
  3. Grill salmon (8-10 min): Place the salmon flesh-side-down on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes until grill marks develop and the fish releases easily from the grates. Carefully flip the salmon using a fish spatula, then cook skin-side-down for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 125-130°F (52-54°C) and the fish is slightly opaque and flakes easily.
  4. Rest salmon (5 min): Remove the salmon from the grill and transfer it to a clean plate or cutting board. Let it rest for 2-5 minutes to finish cooking and allow juices to redistribute. Before serving, brush with additional olive oil or melted butter, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and garnish with a sprinkle of parsley.

Notes

  • Marinating for longer than 1 hour up to 8 hours intensifies the flavor.
  • Use a fish spatula to avoid breaking the delicate salmon when flipping.
  • Ensure grill grates are well oiled to prevent sticking.
  • Internal temperature of 125-130°F yields medium-rare to medium salmon, adjust timing if you prefer more well-done.
  • Can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar and coconut aminos for soy sauce for a gluten-free option.