Cooking salmon on the grill is a delicious way to enjoy this flavorful and healthy fish. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice, cooking salmon on the grill is easy to master and offers endless opportunities for customization. Here are some tips and tricks to help you cook the perfect salmon on the grill every time.
Choose High-Quality Salmon
The best salmon for grilling is fresh, wild-caught salmon with a high fat content. The fat in the salmon helps to keep it moist and flavorful during grilling, so look for salmon that is labeled “fatty” or “oily.”
Prepare the Grill
Before cooking salmon on the grill, it’s important to properly prepare the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent the salmon from sticking. You can do this by scrubbing the grates with a grill brush and then using tongs to rub a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil across the grates.
Season the Salmon
The flavor options for seasoning salmon on the grill are endless depending on your personal taste preference. Some popular options include:
– Lemon and herb seasoning
– Soy sauce and honey glaze
– Garlic and chili seasoning
– Cajun seasoning
The simplest way to season salmon for the grill is to sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the fillets. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on the oiled grates of the grill, skin-side down. Close the lid and let the salmon cook for about 4-6 minutes. Use a spatula to carefully flip the fillets over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked.
How to Tell When Salmon is Done
The best way to tell if salmon is fully cooked on the grill is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the salmon fillet, and if it reads 145°F, the salmon is fully cooked. Alternatively, you can check the texture of the salmon. Fully cooked salmon will easily flake with a fork and appear opaque.
Grilled Salmon FAQ
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about cooking salmon on the grill.
What is the best temperature to cook salmon on the grill?
The best temperature to cook salmon on the grill is medium-high heat, which is 375-450°F.
What is the best way to grill salmon without the skin sticking to the grates?
To prevent salmon skin from sticking to the grill grates, make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking. Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the oiled grill grates, and resist the temptation to move the salmon around while it’s cooking. When the salmon is ready to flip, use a spatula to carefully lift the fillet away from the grill grates to avoid sticking.
How long does it take to cook salmon on the grill?
The cooking time for salmon on the grill depends on the thickness of the fillet, the temperature of the grill, and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule of thumb, it takes about 4-6 minutes per side to fully cook salmon on the grill.
Can you grill salmon in aluminum foil?
Yes, you can grill salmon in aluminum foil. To do so, place the salmon fillets on a large piece of aluminum foil. Fold up the edges of the foil to create a packet, leaving some room for air circulation inside. Grill the foil packet over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked.
In conclusion, grilling salmon is an easy and delicious way to prepare this healthy and flavorful fish. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to cook the perfect salmon on the grill every time. Mix it up with different seasonings and glazes, or keep it simple with just salt and pepper. With practice and patience, you’ll be a salmon grilling pro in no time!