Summer sizzles, flavors mingle, and conversations flow when you serve perfectly grilled salmon at your cookout gatherings.
You’ll transform ordinary backyard meals into memorable culinary events with these ten distinctive recipes.
Each preparation method—from the bright simplicity of lemon-herb to the exotic warmth of coconut curry—offers a unique twist on this versatile fish.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice with tongs, these recipes promise restaurant-quality results with surprisingly little effort.
The secret techniques await in what follows.
Lemon-Herb Grilled Salmon With Mediterranean Spices
This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salmon dish combines zesty lemon with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a flavorful yet healthy meal perfect for summer grilling.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
Step 2: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Remove salmon from marinade and place skin-side down on the grill. Place lemon slices directly on the grill.
Step 5: Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Transfer to serving plates, garnish with grilled lemon slices and fresh parsley.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 18g (mostly heart-healthy)
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Omega-3 fatty acids: 1,800mg
Honey-Glazed Grilled Salmon With Ginger and Soy
This flavorful salmon dish combines sweet honey with aromatic ginger and savory soy sauce for a perfectly balanced glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and sesame oil to create the glaze.
Step 2: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour ⅔ of the glaze over them, reserving the rest for basting. Marinate for 20-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 3: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Clean and oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Remove salmon from marinade and place skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes.
Step 5: Carefully flip the salmon and brush with the reserved glaze. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Step 6: Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Sugar: 11g
Cedar Plank Salmon With Maple and Mustard Rub
This smoky cedar plank salmon features a sweet and tangy maple-mustard rub that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The cedar imparts a distinctive woodsy flavor that perfectly complements the rich salmon.
Ingredients:
- 1 cedar plank (6 inches by 12 inches)
- 1½ pounds salmon fillet, skin on
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped herbs (dill, parsley, or chives)
Instructions:
Step 1: Soak cedar plank in water for at least 2 hours before grilling.
Step 2: Preheat grill to medium heat (350°F). In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Pat salmon dry with paper towels and place skin-side down on the soaked cedar plank. Brush the mustard-maple mixture generously over the salmon.
Step 4: Place the plank on the preheated grill and close the lid. Cook for 12-15 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Step 5: Carefully remove plank from grill. Sprinkle salmon with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 280 per serving
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fiber: 0g
Spicy Cajun Grilled Salmon With Pineapple Salsa
This zesty Cajun salmon pairs perfectly with sweet pineapple salsa for a vibrant flavor combination. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates.
Step 2: Brush salmon fillets with olive oil, then rub Cajun seasoning evenly on both sides. Let sit for 10 minutes.
Step 3: For the salsa, combine diced pineapple, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate.
Step 4: Place salmon on the grill skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Remove salmon from grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve topped with generous spoonfuls of pineapple salsa.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
Coconut Curry Marinated Grilled Salmon
This Thai-inspired grilled salmon combines rich coconut milk with aromatic curry spices. The marinade creates a caramelized exterior while keeping the fish tender and moist.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, honey, garlic, ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Step 2: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Step 3: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Remove salmon from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place salmon skin-side down on the grill.
Step 5: Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Transfer to serving plates, garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Sugar: 7g
Garlic Butter Foil-Wrapped Salmon With Fresh Herbs
This succulent salmon dish combines the richness of garlic butter with the brightness of fresh herbs, all steamed to perfection in a foil packet for a juicy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and half of the fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12×18 inches each). Brush the center lightly with olive oil.
Step 4: Place salmon fillets skin-side down on each foil piece. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet. Top with lemon slices and remaining herbs. Drizzle with remaining lemon juice.
Step 6: Fold the foil over the salmon and seal all edges tightly to create packets.
Step 7: Place packets on the preheated grill and cook for 12-15 minutes until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: Carefully open packets (watch for hot steam) and serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Omega-3 fatty acids: 1.8g
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Skewers With Grilled Vegetables
These juicy salmon skewers are glazed with homemade teriyaki sauce and paired with colorful vegetables for a nutritious, flavor-packed meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil to make the teriyaki glaze.
Step 2: Place salmon cubes in a shallow dish, pour half the glaze over them, and marinate for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Thread salmon and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces.
Step 4: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
Step 5: Lightly oil the grill grates and place skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, about 8-10 minutes total.
Step 6: During the last minute, brush remaining glaze over skewers.
Step 7: Remove from grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 16g (healthy omega-3s)
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
Za’atar Crusted Salmon With Lemon Yogurt Sauce
This Middle Eastern-inspired salmon dish combines aromatic za’atar with tangy lemon yogurt sauce for a flavorful, protein-rich meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Brush salmon with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Coat the flesh side of each fillet generously with za’atar spice blend, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine yogurt, remaining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and dill. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4: Oil grill grates. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and grill for 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily.
Step 5: Transfer salmon to serving plates and top each with a generous spoonful of lemon yogurt sauce. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
Honey-Lime Grilled Salmon With Avocado Mango Salsa
This vibrant grilled salmon dish combines tangy honey-lime marinade with a fresh avocado-mango salsa for a perfect balance of sweet, zesty and smoky flavors.
Ready in under 30 minutes for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Place salmon in a shallow dish and pour marinade over, coating well. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
Step 2: Meanwhile, prepare the salsa by combining diced mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Remove salmon from marinade and place on grill, skin-side down. Grill for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes until fish flakes easily.
Step 4: Transfer salmon to plates and top generously with the avocado-mango salsa.
Serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 380mg
Smoky Paprika and Brown Sugar Rubbed Salmon
This smoky-sweet salmon recipe balances earthy paprika with caramelized brown sugar for a perfectly grilled dish. The spice rub creates a delicious crust while the salmon stays moist and tender inside.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F) and lightly oil the grates.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
Step 3: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then brush both sides with olive oil.
Step 4: Generously coat the flesh side of each salmon fillet with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5: Place salmon on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin becomes crispy.
Step 6: Carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through but still moist inside.
Step 7: Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes before serving with fresh lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
Final Thoughts
With these ten grilled salmon recipes in your culinary arsenal, you’ll transform ordinary summer gatherings into memorable feasts.
From the bright citrus notes of lemon-herb to the exotic warmth of coconut curry, each preparation offers a gateway to seafood perfection.
Don’t let summer slip through your fingers like sand—master these techniques and watch as guests’ expressions melt from curiosity to delight with each perfectly grilled, flavorful bite.
