Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter
About This Course
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter is a fresh, flavorful dish that combines perfectly charred salmon fillets with a bright lemon-infused butter sauce. In this course, you will learn how to choose the right salmon cut, marinate for optimal moisture and seasoning, and grill to achieve crisp skin and a tender, flaky interior. You’ll also master preparing a simple but elegant lemon garlic butter that elevates the natural richness of the fish. By the end, you’ll be able to serve a restaurant-quality grilled salmon that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes.
Learning Objectives
Material Includes
- Ingredient List PDF
- Detailed quantities for 4 servings, including salmon weight, marinade components, and butter sauce ingredients.
- Notes on substituting fresh herbs (parsley vs. dill) and alternative citrus if lemons are unavailable (limes or oranges).
- Printable Grilling Guide
- Visual cue chart showing grill temperature zones (medium-high, direct vs. indirect heat).
- Timing benchmarks for 1″-thick salmon fillets (4–6 minutes per side).
- Step-by-Step Recipe Card
- Chronological instructions from marinade to plating, including preheating grill, basting tips, and resting period.
- Serving Suggestion Sheet
- Lists ideal side dishes (asparagus spears, quinoa salad, roasted potatoes) and wine pairings (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc).
Requirements
- Grill Access: A gas or charcoal grill capable of reaching and stabilizing at medium-high heat (approximately 400–450°F / 200–230°C).
- Kitchen Tools:
- Fish spatula or wide, thin spatula for flipping salmon.
- Instant-read thermometer for checking internal temperature.
- Small saucepan for melting butter and combining sauce ingredients.
- Mixing bowl for marinade.
- Quality Salmon:
- Four 6- to 8-ounce salmon fillets (skin-on recommended for grilling).
- Verify freshest available—firm flesh, no off-odor.
- Basic Ingredients:
- Fresh lemons (zest and juice), unsalted butter, garlic, and fresh herbs (parsley or dill).
- Olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Time Commitment: Approximately 25–30 minutes total—5 minutes prep, 15 minutes on the grill, 5–10 minutes plating and resting.
Target Audience
- Home Cooks Seeking Healthy Protein Options: Anyone looking to incorporate more seafood into their weekly menu.
- Beginner Grilling Enthusiasts: Those new to outdoor cooking who want clear guidance on handling fish on the grill.
- Busy Professionals & Families: Cooks who need a quick, 30-minute main dish that feels special without extensive prep.
- Entertainers Hosting Al Fresco Meals: Hosts aiming to impress guests with a restaurant-quality grilled salmon at summer gatherings.
- Culinary Students & Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in refining their seafood techniques and mastering simple butter sauces.