Grilled salmon with lemon butter is the definition of simple elegance. This recipe takes tender, flaky salmon and pairs it with a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce that highlights the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering them. Whether you’re grilling outdoors in the summer or using a grill pan indoors, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-level flavor with minimal effort. It’s an ideal choice for quick weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping healthy protein.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh, bright flavor with rich buttery notes
- Quick cook time — ready in under 30 minutes
- High in protein and omega-3s
- Perfect for grilling season or indoor grill pans
- Pairs beautifully with seasonal veggies, rice, or salads
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry. Rub with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. - Preheat grill
Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil grates or pan surface. - Grill the salmon
Place salmon skin-side down. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. During the last 2 minutes, add lemon slices to the grill for a smoky, caramelized finish. - Make lemon butter sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 1–2 minutes and remove from heat. - Serve
Drizzle lemon butter over salmon. Top with grilled lemon slices and chopped parsley.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
Tips & Variations
- Indoor option: Use a cast-iron grill pan or bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
- Butter substitute: Try ghee or dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version.
- Extra flavor: Add a dash of white wine or Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- Pair it with: Steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, couscous, or a light arugula salad.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the butter sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to ensure it grills evenly.
What’s the best salmon to use?
Skin-on fillets are easier to grill and retain moisture better, but skinless also works.
How do I know when salmon is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 125–130°F.
Can I prep the sauce ahead?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and gently reheat before serving.
Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter
Equipment
- – Grill or grill pan
- – Tongs
- Saucepan
- Fish spatula
Ingredients
- Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 lemon sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Lemon Butter Sauce
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Juice & zest of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp parsley
Instructions
- Rub salmon with oil, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder.
- Preheat grill. Grill salmon 4–5 mins per side. Grill lemon slices last 2 mins.
- In saucepan, melt butter, sauté garlic, add lemon juice/zest. Simmer 1–2 mins.
- Serve salmon topped with sauce, parsley, and grilled lemon.
Notes
Conclusion
Grilled salmon with lemon butter is a dish that proves less is more. With just a few ingredients and simple technique, you get a vibrant, satisfying meal that tastes like it came from a fine dining kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for two or a backyard gathering, this recipe is sure to impress—and become a go-to staple in your seafood rotation.