Grilled Whole Salmon Fillet

Name: Grilled Whole Salmon Fillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 whole salmon fillet (about 1.5 kg or 3 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 lemon lemon (sliced); 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)

40 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savour the delicious taste of a perfectly grilled whole salmon fillet, seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon.

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Grilling salmon is a wonderful way to bring out its natural flavours. A whole salmon fillet, seasoned with a touch of lemon and fresh herbs, becomes a succulent and impressive main dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a family dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends, this grilled salmon fillet will surely be a hit. The combination of smoky char from the grill and the delicate taste of the salmon makes for a delightful culinary experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Pro tip: Use a wire brush to clean the grates and a cloth or paper towel dipped in oil for greasing.

Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillet on a large platter. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it evenly over the fish. Season with salt and black pepper.

Pro tip: Ensure the salmon is at room temperature before grilling to cook evenly.

Add Lemon and Dill

Arrange the lemon slices evenly over the salmon and sprinkle with fresh dill.

Pro tip: For extra flavour, add a pinch of lemon zest.

Grill the Salmon

Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Pro tip: Do not flip the salmon; cooking it on one side will preserve its moisture.

Check Doneness

Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. It should reach 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.

Pro tip: Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish for an accurate reading.

Rest the Salmon

Remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavourful bite.

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Tips & Tricks

Choose a fresh, high-quality salmon fillet for the best flavour.
Use a fish spatula for easy flipping on the grill.
Preheat the grill for even cooking.
Rest the salmon before serving for juicier results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you cook a salmon fillet?

Grill the salmon fillet on medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C), for 10-12 minutes until it's opaque and flakes easily.

What temperature should grilled salmon reach?

Grilled salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.

Do you flip salmon on the grill?

No, it's best to cook salmon skin-side down without flipping to retain moisture.

How do you season a salmon fillet?

Season a salmon fillet with olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon slices, and fresh dill for a simple and delicious flavour.

How long should salmon rest after grilling?

Let the salmon rest for about 5 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled salmon fillet with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir to complement the dish's flavours. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy them cold in a salad or gently reheat for a quick meal.