Grilled Salmon
Perfectly grilled salmon fillets seasoned with fresh dill, garlic, and lemon. This simple, heart-healthy recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and is ideal for a diabetic-friendly, low-carb meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
- b.In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped dill.
- c.Season the mixture with the pinch of salt and black pepper.
TIPCleaning the grill grates well and lightly oiling them will prevent the salmon from sticking. - 2
Step 2
- a.Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with a paper towel.
- b.Brush the herb and oil mixture evenly over the top (flesh side) of each salmon fillet.
TIPPatting the salmon dry is a crucial step for getting a nice sear and preventing it from steaming on the grill. - 3
Step 3
- a.Place the salmon fillets on the preheated grill, skin-side down if they have skin.
- b.Close the lid and grill for 4-6 minutes on the first side.
- c.Carefully flip the fillets and grill for another 2-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- d.The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
TIPAvoid moving the salmon too much once it's on the grill. Let it cook undisturbed to form nice grill marks and prevent it from falling apart. - 4
Step 4
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcook the salmon. It will continue to cook for a minute after being removed from the heat. Aim for just cooked through for the most tender result.
- 2If you don't have a grill, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes.
- 3Feel free to swap dill with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary.
- 4For easy cleanup, you can grill the salmon on a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- 5Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
Use pre-minced garlic and bottled lemon juice to reduce prep time to under 5 minutes.
high proteinHigh protein
Increase the salmon portion to 8 oz (227g) per serving for over 50g of protein. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
budget friendlyBudget friendly
Use frozen salmon fillets, which are often more affordable than fresh. Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Serve with a lemon wedge on the side so kids can add the juice themselves. Ensure there are no bones in the fillet before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is one of the best sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and support overall heart health.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
A single serving provides over 30 grams of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, bone health, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Supports Blood Sugar Control
As a high-protein, zero-sugar food, salmon does not raise blood sugar levels, making it an ideal choice for a diabetic-friendly diet.
Packed with B Vitamins
Salmon is rich in B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production, creating and repairing DNA, and reducing inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, grilled salmon is exceptionally healthy. It's a fantastic source of high-quality lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids which support heart and brain health, and essential vitamins like D and B12. This recipe is low in saturated fat and sodium, making it an excellent choice.