If you’re looking for the best grilled salmon recipe, you’ve found it! This Grilled Salmon is marinated in a sweet and savory soy-based glaze, then grilled to perfection for a tender, flaky, and incredibly flavorful dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, summer BBQ, or meal prep, this easy, foolproof recipe will impress every time!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Salmon
Incredibly flavorful – The marinade gives the salmon a rich umami taste with a touch of sweetness.
Perfectly juicy & flaky – Grilled just right, this salmon stays moist and tender.
Healthy & protein-packed – A nutritious meal that’s as good for you as it is delicious.
Quick & easy – Just 10 minutes of prep and the grill does the rest!What Does This Grilled Salmon Taste Like?
This grilled salmon is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky. The soy sauce and brown sugar caramelize on the grill, creating a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the fish flaky and moist inside. The lemon pepper and garlic powder add a bright, aromatic touch that enhances every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 ½ pounds salmon fillets
Lemon pepper, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
Salt, to taste
⅓ cup soy sauce
⅓ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup water
¼ cup vegetable oilKitchen Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
Outdoor grill or grill pan
Tongs or spatulaHow to Make the Best Grilled Salmon
- Marinate the Salmon In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and vegetable oil until the sugar dissolves.
Sprinkle the lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt evenly over the salmon fillets.
Place the seasoned salmon in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the salmon, seal the bag (or cover the dish), and turn to coat.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally to ensure even flavor. - Preheat the Grill Set an outdoor grill to medium heat (350–400°F).
Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. - Grill the Salmon Remove the salmon from the marinade and discard excess liquid.
Place the fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill.
Cook for 6–8 minutes per side, flipping carefully, until the fish flakes easily with a fork. - Serve & Enjoy Remove from the grill and let it rest for 2 minutes.
Serve hot with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
How to Know When Salmon is Done
The best way to check for doneness is to use a fork—if the fish flakes easily, it’s ready!
You can also use a meat thermometer:
Medium-Rare: 125°F (52°C)
Medium: 130°F (54°C)
Well-Done: 145°F (63°C) (USDA recommended)What to Serve with Grilled Salmon
Pair your salmon with these delicious sides:
Grilled zucchini or asparagus – Light and fresh.
Garlic butter rice or quinoa – A perfect base for the salmon.
Roasted potatoes – Crispy and flavorful.
Caesar salad – A fresh, tangy contrast.Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Salmon
Use fresh, high-quality salmon – Wild-caught salmon has the best flavor.
Don’t over-marinate – More than 4 hours can make the fish too salty.
Oil the grill grates well – This prevents sticking and helps with flipping.
Flip carefully – Use a thin metal spatula to avoid breaking the fillets.
Let it rest before serving – This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.Variations & Customizations
Spicy Grilled Salmon – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Honey Garlic Salmon – Swap brown sugar for honey and add ½ teaspoon minced ginger.
Teriyaki Salmon – Replace soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for an extra-glossy glaze.
Lemon Herb Salmon – Marinate with olive oil, fresh herbs, and lemon juice instead of soy sauce.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill salmon without the skin?
Yes! But grilling with the skin on helps hold the fillet together and adds extra flavor.
Can I bake this salmon instead?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw completely before marinating for the best texture.
Do I need to flip the salmon?
Not always! If grilling skin-side down, you can leave it until fully cooked. Flipping is optional.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Salmon is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect healthy dinner for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight meal or a summer BBQ, this recipe will always be a hit!
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More Delicious Seafood Recipes to Try
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Oven-Baked Lemon Herb Salmon
Blackened Cajun TilapiaFire up the grill and get ready for the juiciest, most flavorful grilled salmon ever!