Seafood
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter
A healthy and flavorful main course featuring perfectly grilled salmon fillets topped with a zesty homemade garlic and herb compound butter.
Watch it madeFilipinaChefKitchen · 4:01
Ingredients
- Salmon Fillets4 (6oz each)
- Unsalted Butter4 tbsp
- Fresh Dill1 tbsp chopped
- Fresh Parsley1 tbsp chopped
- Garlic1 clove minced
- Lemon Zest1 tsp
- Olive Oil1 tbsp
Method
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped dill, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt.
- Place salmon on the grill, skin side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Transfer to a plate and immediately top each warm fillet with a spoonful of the lemon herb butter to melt.
Common questions
Can I substitute dried herbs for the fresh dill and parsley in the lemon herb butter?
Yes. Use 1 teaspoon dried dill and 1 teaspoon dried parsley for every 1 tablespoon fresh herb total, but add them sparingly—they’re stronger. Let the butter sit 10 minutes before serving so the herbs hydrate and flavor the salmon.
How do I know when the salmon is done on the grill?
For average fillets, 4–5 minutes skin-side down and 2–3 minutes after flipping is a good guide. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque but still looks slightly moist in the center.
What are the most common mistakes when grilling salmon?
The biggest mistakes are using a grill that isn’t hot enough, moving the fish too early, and overcooking after the flip. Also, skip wet salmon—pat it dry first so it sears and the skin gets crisp instead of sticking.
How should I store leftover grilled salmon and lemon herb butter?
Store salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep leftover herb butter separate if possible, also refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat salmon gently in a low oven or eat it cold in salads.
What are good serving ideas for grilled salmon with lemon herb butter?
Serve it with grilled asparagus, roasted potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. The butter also works well over corn, zucchini, or crusty bread. Add extra lemon wedges for brightness if you want a sharper finish.