Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
If you’re looking for a fresh, healthy, and easy summer meal, this Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon is your go-to recipe. Bursting with citrusy brightness, aromatic herbs, and juicy grilled flavor, it’s a dish that brings the taste of the coast right to your backyard grill.
This recipe is inspired by one of my weekend getaways to a lakeside cabin with friends.
We had a small charcoal grill, a few fresh salmon fillets, and whatever herbs we could grab from the nearby market.
That spontaneous dinner turned into a tradition!
Now, every time I grill this lemony herb salmon, it brings back the joy of warm evenings, laughter, and simple ingredients turned into something unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This
- Fresh & Flavorful: Zesty lemon juice and garden-fresh herbs bring the salmon to life.
- Healthy & Light: Packed with omega-3s and made with wholesome ingredients.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for Grilling Season: Ideal for cookouts, BBQs, or summer dinners on the patio.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $18–$22
Equipment:
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on, 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the fillets and let them sit for 10–15 minutes while the grill heats up.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, then flip carefully and cook the other side for another 5–6 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the grill, garnish with lemon slices and additional herbs if desired. Serve hot with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh summer salad.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Tips for Success
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact—especially dill and parsley.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest—it adds depth beyond just lemon juice.
- Make sure your grill is hot before placing the salmon on it to get beautiful grill marks.
- Don’t overcook—salmon should be just cooked through and flaky, not dry.
Common Questions
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available. Use about one-third the amount (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried for every tablespoon fresh).
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! You can use a stovetop grill pan or even bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. You can also use a thermometer—internal temp should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I marinate the salmon longer?
It’s best not to marinate for more than 30 minutes because the acid in the lemon juice can start to break down the fish and make it mushy.
Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets skin-on, 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dried
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the fillets and let them sit for 10–15 minutes while the grill heats up.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, then flip carefully and cook the other side for another 5–6 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the grill, garnish with lemon slices and additional herbs if desired. Serve hot with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh summer salad.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact—especially dill and parsley.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest—it adds depth beyond just lemon juice.
- Make sure your grill is hot before placing the salmon on it to get beautiful grill marks.
- Don’t overcook—salmon should be just cooked through and flaky, not dry.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just want a quick and healthy dinner, this Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon is a crowd-pleaser that brings flavor, freshness, and simplicity to your table.
Happy cooking and enjoy every zesty bite!
