Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 280
Protein: 25 grams
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Fat: 19 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
Sodium: 220 mg

Grilled lemon pepper salmon garnished with herbs on a white plate

Why I Love This Grilled Lemon Pepper Salmon

I absolutely adore this Grilled Lemon Pepper Salmon because it perfectly captures the essence of summer cooking! The bright, zingy flavor from the lemon combined with the spice of the lemon pepper seasoning makes each bite a burst of freshness.

It’s super easy to whip up, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings with friends. Plus, grilling salmon gives it that delicious charred taste, which elevates your meal to a restaurant-quality dish right in your backyard.

Whenever I make this, I can just picture sunny days and good times with loved ones—it’s all about those simple yet sophisticated flavors!

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning, Salt to taste, Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Grilled Lemon Pepper Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This step ensures your salmon cooks evenly and gets those perfect grill marks!

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, and a pinch of salt. This marinade is key for infusing your salmon with flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Salmon

Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with the marinade. Make sure they’re well-coated; this will enhance both the taste and juiciness of the fish.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

Carefully place the marinated salmon fillets on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The grill should sizzle as you lay them on!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill. If you fancy it, garnish with some fresh parsley for that extra pop of color. Serve immediately for the best taste experience!

Tips & Variations

Make It Spicy: For those who love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Serving Display: Serve the salmon on a bed of mixed greens and drizzle a light vinaigrette over the top for a stunning presentation.
Diet Adjustments: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. You can easily substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor.
Side Recommendations: Pair the salmon with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Delicious Variations

Honey Garlic Salmon: Glaze your salmon fillets with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic for a sweet and savory twist.
Teriyaki Salmon: Brush the salmon with teriyaki sauce before grilling for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Herb-Crusted Salmon: Use fresh herbs like dill and thyme in place of lemon pepper for a fragrant alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Lemon Pepper Salmon

For the best experience, serve your Grilled Lemon Pepper Salmon hot off the grill. It’s perfect for dinner but also works wonderfully for lunch the next day!

You can pair it with a chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance those lemony notes.

For a side dish, try serving it alongside a light quinoa salad. A refreshing cucumber salad also complements the salmon beautifully, creating a delicious and balanced plate.

Storage and Leftovers

To keep your Grilled Lemon Pepper Salmon fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you need to freeze it, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

It should stay good in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Helpful Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw it before marinating and grilling.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can broil the salmon in your oven or use a grill pan on the stovetop.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the salmon up to 2 hours ahead of time for deeper flavor.
What’s a good side to serve with this salmon?
Steamed asparagus or a light couscous salad would pair beautifully with this dish!