Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Perfect Marinated Grilled Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 61 reviews

This Perfect Marinated Grilled Salmon recipe features tender, flavorful salmon filets marinated in a zesty blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon, and fresh parsley, then grilled to juicy perfection with beautiful char marks. Ready in just 25 minutes of active cooking plus marinating time, it’s ideal for a healthy and impressive weeknight dinner or summer BBQ.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Marinade Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
  • 3 Tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup)
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1 Teaspoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (plus more for topping)
  • 1 Teaspoon kosher salt
  • Black pepper to taste

Main Ingredients

  • 4 (4-6 oz each) skin-on salmon filets

Instructions

  1. Marinate the salmon (1 hr): Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the salmon filets and gently turn to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours to allow flavors to develop.
  2. Prep the grill: Clean the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking, then brush them generously with olive oil. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 400°F and 450°F.
  3. Grill salmon (8-10 min): Place salmon on the grill flesh-side down and close the lid. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until you see clear grill marks and the fish releases easily from the grates. If it sticks, cook another 1-2 minutes until it loosens. Use a fish spatula to carefully flip the salmon skin-side down. Close the lid and continue grilling another 4 to 5 minutes until the internal temperature registers 125-130°F and the flesh is slightly opaque, flaky, and firm to the touch.
  4. Rest salmon (5 min): Remove salmon from the grill onto a clean plate or cutting board. Allow it to rest for 2 to 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute and finish cooking. Before serving, brush with additional olive oil or melted butter, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and sprinkle with extra chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Marinate salmon for at least 1 hour for best flavor but no more than 8 hours to avoid breaking down the fish.
  • Use a fish spatula or thin, flexible spatula to flip salmon gently to avoid breaking the fillets.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked salmon (125-130°F for medium doneness).
  • If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the salmon skin-side down in a hot cast iron skillet on the stovetop.
  • Leftover grilled salmon can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and used in salads, sandwiches, or eaten cold.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American