How to Grill Salmon

Septemba 06, 2021 4 min read

Salmon is among the most grilled foods during summers. But why is it one of the favorite proteins that often hits the grill? It has tons of nutrients, i.e. healthy fats, omega 3s, and lean proteins. Additionally, it’s delicious and easy to cook.
How do you grill salmon? There are two methods of grilling salmon, i.e. direct grilling of salmon on a grill and grilling salmon packed in foil. Both of these methods are easy and fast to cook your salmon. Keep reading down here to know everything about grilling salmon.

Slice of salmon

What is the Best Salmon for Grilling?

Before we go down to the exact process of grilling salmon, let’s look into the best salmon you should choose for grilling. It affects the flavor and how you should cook it.
Do you choose farmed or wild salmon? The wild salmon is leaner with a pink color, and it’s packed with minerals such as iron, zinc. It also has more flavor. Conversely, farmed salmon has a milder flavor and buttery texture. However, both are excellent choices; it all depends on the preferred cut.
Another thing to consider while selecting salmon for grilling is the skin. Do you want it with the skin on or off? Well, salmon with the skin tends to maintain an extra flavor than one without. The skin also protects the salmon from sticking on the grill.
Lastly, consider selecting the center-cut pieces of the salmon. They are thicker and more uniform; thus, they cook evenly.

Preparing Salmon for Grilling

Start by marinating the salmon to impart an extra flavor to your salmon. You can use your favorite marinade (either make one or use a commercial one). Brush the salmon cuts with a marinade and let them absorb it. Additionally, you can pour the marinade in a shallow dish where you deep your salmon cuts and leave it in a fridge for a few hours before cooking.
Remember, you should grill dry cuts; therefore, ensure you use paper towels to wipe excess moisture on the salmon before grilling.

How to Grill Salmon

Now, let’s look into two different methods of cooking salmon on a grill. You can choose either depending on what you prefer.

Method 1: Direct Cooking of Salmon on an Electric Grill

It’s the typical method that applies when grilling most foods. Here are the steps you should follow when grilling directly.

A. Preheat the grill

If you want to achieve the best results, first preheat your electric grill for about 10 minutes. Heat the grill over medium-high heat (approximately 375 to 400 degrees F). Also, you may brush your grill with a light coat of oil (it’s optional since most electric grills have a non-stick cooking surface).
Most importantly, ensure your grill is clean. It prevents foods from sticking.

B. Cook your salmon

Once your grill is preheated, you can start grilling the salmon. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down. Let it cook for about 6-8 minutes.
Then use a tong to flip your cuts. Ensure they have attained sear marks from the grill’s cooking surface.

C. Check the internal temperature

Checking the internal temperature of your salmon is very crucial. Salmon should attain an internal temperature of about 140 to 145 degrees F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
You must ensure that your salmon is not overcooked. A well-cooked salmon should be flaky and firm.

D. Let it rest

After the salmon is cooked, let it rests for about 5 minutes. It allows it to absorb the juices and seal the flavor.

E. Serve

The last step entails peeling the skin on the salmon cut and serving it. Serve the salmon with your favorite side dish.

Method 2: Grilling Salmon in Foil Packs

Grilling salmon in foil packs is another simple method that gives incredible results. Below are steps on how to go about it.

a.   Preheat your electric grill

Preheat the grill to around 375 to 400 degrees F. It takes about 10 minutes.

b.   Create a salmon foil pack

Get a foil that is about 24 inches long and spray it with cooking spray. Put the salmon on it. You may also add other ingredients such as onions, lemon, and garlic to the salmon.
Then fold the edges of the foil by bringing together the 2 long sides of the foil. Also, add another piece of foil on top and seal the edges. You should then use a fork to poke a hole at the top of the foil to allow steam to escape while cooking.

c.   Grill the salmon foil pack

You should then place your salmon foil pack on the preheated grill to cook. Let it cook for about 10 to 20 minutes before opening the foil. The cooking time depends on the size of the cut. If the salmon is not thick, it takes less time to cook.

d.   Remove the foil and let it rest

Remove the foil pack from the grill and open it. Then let the salmon rest for about 5 minutes before serving.