Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Recipe

If you’re looking for a straightforward, mouthwatering way to elevate your dinner routine, this Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Recipe is an absolute game-changer. I love this because it’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, with that perfect balance of smoky char and bright, buttery lemon flavor. Stick with me here, and you’ll see just how fast and foolproof grilling salmon can be—plus, I’ll share all my best tips so you don’t miss a step.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic here is in the simplicity: fresh salmon, olive oil, butter, and lemon come together so seamlessly. When you shop, try to get the freshest salmon you can find—wild-caught if possible—and good-quality unsalted butter makes a noticeable difference in that luscious lemon butter sauce.

• Salmon Fillets: Skin-on fillets are best for grilling as they hold together well and get crispy on the grill.
• Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to coat the salmon and prevent sticking.
• Unsalted Butter: Melting your own butter ensures a rich, fresh base for the lemon sauce.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Always go fresh—bottled just can’t compete here for brightness.
• Coarse Salt and Freshly Cracked Pepper: It’s amazing how simple seasoning really elevates the flavors.

Variations

I love to keep things classic with this grilled salmon and lemon butter combo, but feel free to play around with it—sometimes a little extra herb magic or a different fat can take it in a new direction. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this recipe as long as it ends up on your plate looking and tasting delicious.

• Herb Infusion: I like to add fresh dill or thyme to the lemon butter for a fresh herbal note—my family goes crazy for this twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the olive oil rub if you want something a little spicy and smoky.
• Healthy Swap: For a lighter option, use just olive oil and lemon juice without butter—still delightful and heart-healthy.
• Seasonal Citrus: In the fall, swapping lemon for fresh orange juice gives a beautifully sweet and tangy variation.

How to Make Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Salmon Like a Pro

Start by portioning your salmon fillets however you like. I usually go for about 8 ounces each—you can’t beat that perfect balance of portion and cook time. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels—a must! This helps the oil and seasoning stick, plus it encourages that gorgeous grill sear. Then drizzle with olive oil and rub it evenly on all sides. Don’t be shy with the coarse salt and pepper, seasoning is key for flavor.

Step 2: Get Your Grill Hot and Ready

Preheat your grill to a high heat, around 450° to 550°. When you’re grilling salmon, a hot grill is vital to keep the skin crispy and to prevent sticking. Use a grill brush to clean the grates, then oil them. Here’s a trick I discovered: soak a folded paper towel in oil, and with long tongs, rub the grates thoroughly. It helps salmon release easily and keeps everything intact.

Step 3: Grill the Salmon with Care

Place the salmon skin-side down (or flesh-side down if skinless) and let it cook undisturbed for 4 minutes. I know it’s tempting to prod it, but trust me, this helps build that crispy crust and prevents sticking. After 4 minutes, carefully flip with a spatula or tongs and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the internal temperature hits about 125°. This keeps the salmon moist and just slightly translucent—not dry or overdone.

Step 4: Finish with Lemon Butter and Rest

Remove your salmon from the grill and immediately brush it with melted butter mixed with fresh lemon juice. This step is where the richness meets the zesty brightness and gives it that irresistible finishing touch. Let the salmon rest for 2 to 3 minutes to let the juices settle—you’ll get a more tender bite.

How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Recipe

Garnishes

I love adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill right before serving because it adds a lovely burst of color and fresh herbal notes. A few thin lemon slices or zest on top also make it look bright and inviting—plus, they add a hit of even more citrus flavor as you eat.

Side Dishes

When it comes to sides, my go-to is grilled asparagus or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the butter. Roasted baby potatoes or a simple quinoa salad also pair beautifully with this grilled salmon for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve plated grilled salmon on a bed of lemon-infused risotto or alongside a colorful roasted beet and fennel salad. Drizzling a little extra lemon butter around the plate and adding microgreens turns it into an Instagram-worthy dish in seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It holds up surprisingly well, especially if you keep the lemon butter separate until reheating to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Personally, I haven’t had the best luck freezing grilled salmon with lemon butter—once thawed, the texture isn’t quite the same. If you want to freeze, it’s better to freeze plain cooked salmon and add fresh lemon butter after reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the salmon in a low oven (about 275°F) covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Then I add fresh lemon butter right before serving. This keeps it tender and flavorful without overcooking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s both reliable and indulgent. Whether you’re new to grilling fish or a seasoned pro, following these simple yet foolproof steps means you’ll always end up with melt-in-your-mouth salmon that everyone will ask for again. I can’t wait for you to try it—trust me, it’s going to be your new favorite weeknight win!

Print