5-Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon Recipe

 

Grilled salmon is a beloved dish for many, but when you can prepare it with just five ingredients, it becomes a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or outdoor gatherings. This marinated grilled salmon recipe is incredibly simple yet packs a punch of flavor. The combination of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and garlic enhances the natural taste of the salmon, providing a delicious, juicy, and slightly tangy result. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this dish is both approachable and impressive. Plus, it’s nutritious, light, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Let’s dive into this 5-ingredient recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• ¼ cup olive oil (for a rich, smooth flavor and healthy fats)
• ¼ cup soy sauce (adds a savory, umami punch)
• 1 lemon, juiced (for freshness and acidity)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (adds aromatic depth and a little spice)

Preparation:

Step 1:

Begin by preparing the marinade. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic. This simple combination will create a balanced marinade that complements the salmon’s natural flavors without overpowering them.

Step 2:

Place your salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is fully coated. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, you can let it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor. Be sure to turn the salmon fillets halfway through the marination time to ensure even absorption of the marinade.

Step 3:

While the salmon is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A temperature between 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C) works best for grilling salmon, as it ensures the fish cooks through while still maintaining its juiciness. If you are using a grill pan indoors, set it over medium heat and lightly oil the pan.

Step 4:

Once your grill is ready, remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Grill the salmon fillets for 4 to 5 minutes per side. Start with the skin-side down if your fillets still have the skin attached. The salmon should develop a nice char and be easy to flip. Be gentle when flipping to avoid breaking the fillets. You’ll know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5:

Once fully cooked, remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist and flavorful.

Cooking Note:

• Choosing Your Salmon:
  Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets whenever possible. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a more robust flavor compared to farm-raised. However, both types work well for this recipe. If using frozen salmon, be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
• Grill Temperature Control:
  It’s essential to maintain a medium-high heat for this recipe. Too high a temperature may burn the outside of the fish while leaving the inside undercooked, and too low a heat might dry out the salmon.
• Marinating Time:
  While 30 minutes is sufficient to flavor the salmon, extending the marination time to 1 to 2 hours will enhance the depth of flavor, especially if you’re looking for a stronger soy-lemon-garlic taste. Avoid marinating for longer than 4 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice may start to break down the texture of the salmon.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the grilled salmon with a side of grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the light marinade on the salmon perfectly.
• Alternatively, pair the salmon with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. A simple arugula or spinach salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice would work beautifully.
• For a more filling meal, serve the salmon alongside quinoa, couscous, or brown rice to absorb the flavorful juices from the fish.
• Don’t forget a lemon wedge on the side for an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This enhances the citrus notes in the dish.

Tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon:
  Salmon cooks relatively quickly on the grill. Keeping a close eye on it ensures you don’t end up with dry, overcooked fillets. Remember, salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Alternative Cooking Methods:
  If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use an oven broiler or a grill pan on your stovetop. For the broiler, preheat on high and cook the salmon for 5-6 minutes per side, keeping an eye on the fillets to ensure they don’t burn.
• Enhance the Flavor:
  For an added depth of flavor, you can sprinkle a little brown sugar into the marinade or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. The sweet and spicy combination is delightful.
• Make it a Meal Prep Option:
  Grilled salmon is a fantastic meal prep option. You can make extra fillets and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use leftover salmon in salads, wraps, or on top of pasta for an easy and healthy lunch or dinner.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Sodium: 610mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before marinating.
2. Can I bake this salmon instead of grilling it?
   Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches the desired internal temperature.
3. What if I don’t have a grill?
   You can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even broil the salmon in the oven for similar results. Both methods will still give you that lovely char and delicious flavor.
4. Can I substitute the soy sauce with something else?
   If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce or use tamari (a gluten-free alternative). Coconut aminos can also be used for a slightly sweeter flavor.
5. How long can I marinate the salmon?
   The ideal marinating time is 30 minutes to 2 hours. Avoid marinating for more than 4 hours to prevent the lemon juice from breaking down the texture of the salmon.

Conclusion:

This 5-Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon recipe is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. With minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend BBQs. The combination of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon, and garlic works harmoniously with the richness of the salmon, resulting in a perfectly grilled fillet every time. Whether you’re new to grilling or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delicious and nutritious salmon dish with your family and friends.

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