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Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush them lightly with olive oil.
- Season evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes without moving, allowing the skin to crisp.
- Carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, then remove from heat.
- Transfer the salmon to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the lemon butter sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and optional fresh herbs before serving immediately.
Variations
- Oven-Baked Version: Bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes instead of grilling.
- Spicy Lemon Butter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: Coat the fillets with a mix of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs before cooking.
- Garlic Lovers’ Style: Double the garlic for a more robust, savory sauce.
Tips
- Always start with dry salmon to achieve a better sear and prevent sticking.
- Avoid overcooking; salmon should remain moist and slightly translucent in the center.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- For a steakhouse-style presentation, serve on a warm plate and spoon the hot sauce over just before serving.