Grilled salmon with lemon butter delivers the perfect balance of smoky char, rich flavor, and bright citrusy finish. This easy, elegant dish is ideal for everything from weeknight dinners to summer gatherings. With flaky salmon fillets, a simple homemade lemon butter sauce, and just 20 minutes from grill to plate, it’s a reliable favorite that always impresses — with no fuss.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Cooking: Done in under 25 minutes
Fresh & Light: Clean, simple ingredients with bold flavor
Grill or Oven-Friendly: Versatile for year-round cooking
Family Favorite: Kid-approved, elegant enough for guests
Naturally Gluten-Free & Keto: Low-carb and high in protein
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high. Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. - Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry. Brush with olive oil on both sides and season generously with salt and pepper. - Grill the Fish
Place lemon slices on the grill, then place the salmon fillets skin-side down on top of the lemons. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. - Make the Lemon Butter
While the salmon grills, melt butter in a small saucepan. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat. Stir in parsley if using. - Serve
Transfer salmon to a plate. Drizzle with warm lemon butter sauce and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Fat: 24g
Carbs: 2g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Sodium: 180mg
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sugar: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Tips & Variations
Use Fresh Herbs: Add dill, basil, or thyme for extra depth
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter
Citrus Blend: Combine lemon juice with orange or lime for a twist
Oven Option: Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes if grill is unavailable
Crispy Skin Tip: Grill skin-side down most of the time for best texture
FAQs
How do I know when salmon is cooked?
It’s done when the flesh flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internally.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before grilling.
What sides pair best?
Try grilled asparagus, couscous, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh arugula salad.
Can I prep the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, lemon butter sauce can be made in advance and gently reheated before serving.
Do I have to use lemon slices under the salmon?
Not required, but it helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- – Saucepan
- – Tongs or spatula
- Fish thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 1 lemon sliced
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat grill and oil the grates.
- Brush salmon with oil, season with salt and pepper.
- Grill lemon slices, then place salmon on top. Cook 4–5 mins per side.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, sauté garlic 1 min, add lemon juice and parsley.
- Drizzle sauce over grilled salmon. Serve hot.
Notes
Conclusion
Grilled salmon with lemon butter is a restaurant-worthy dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With juicy salmon, a zesty garlic-lemon sauce, and a crisp char from the grill, this meal satisfies with both flavor and flair. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a wholesome, elegant dinner in under 30 minutes.