Ingredients
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon pepper
Salmon and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds center cut salmon
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix the garlic salt and lemon pepper together. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon filets to infuse them with flavor.
- Prepare the Marinade: Melt the butter and combine it with brown sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade. Spoon this marinade over the seasoned salmon filets and let them sit briefly to start absorbing the flavors.
- Marinate the Salmon: Transfer the remaining marinade into a plastic zipper gallon bag or a glass baking dish. Add the salmon filets to the bag or dish and turn them gently to coat all sides. Seal or cover and refrigerate to marinate for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to 400°F (204°C) to ensure optimal cooking temperature for the salmon.
- Prepare Marinade Sauce: Remove the salmon from the marinade and set aside. Do not discard the marinade. Pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Whisk the cornstarch into the marinade to thicken it. Heat over medium-high heat for a few minutes, stirring constantly until warm and slightly thickened.
- Grill the Salmon - First Side: Place the salmon filets on the grill skin side up (flesh side down). Cook for 15 minutes without disturbing to develop a nice sear and cook through partially.
- Grill the Salmon - Second Side: Carefully turn the filets over so the skin side is down. Brush the exposed flesh with the remaining warmed marinade sauce. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, basting periodically, until the salmon is fully cooked and flaky.
Notes
- Make sure the grill is properly preheated before placing the salmon to avoid sticking.
- Use a fish spatula for easier turning and handling of delicate salmon filets.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can also be adapted to broil in the oven.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Leftover marinade should be cooked thoroughly before using as a sauce to ensure safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Grilling
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American