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Flavorful Grilled Salmon Recipe with Perfect Lemon Butter Sauce

grilled salmon recipe - featured image

A smoky, grilled salmon paired with zesty lemon butter sauce and nutty quinoa for a healthy yet indulgent meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season them with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water (or chicken broth), and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Keep warm.
  4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily. Remove from heat.
  5. Plate the quinoa as a base, place the salmon fillets on top, and drizzle generously with the lemon butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.

Notes

[‘Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor.’, ‘Don’t overcook the salmon; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F.’, ‘Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness and achieve a fluffy texture.’, ‘Feel free to customize the seasoning or add herbs like dill or thyme.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon, lemon butter sauce, quinoa, healthy dinner, quick recipe