Grilled Salmon with Herb Citrus Glaze

Introduction:

This recipe for Grilled Salmon with Herb Citrus Glaze is a delightful fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds to a sunny beachside grill. The dish combines the rich, buttery texture of salmon with a tangy, aromatic herb and citrus glaze that complements its natural sweetness. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to adjust the herbs and citrus according to your preference or what’s in season.

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
Olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Herb Citrus Glaze Ingredients:

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup olive oil

Garnishes:

Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme)
Lemon wedges
Chopped green onions

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon:

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle a little olive oil over each fillet to help it brown nicely on the grill.

Step 2: Making the Herb Citrus Glaze:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, thyme, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and olive oil. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set aside.

Step 3: Grilling the Salmon:

Prepare your grill for direct heat cooking. If using a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until they are covered with gray ash. For a gas grill, preheat to high. Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the grill skin-side down (if the skin is still attached). Grill for about 4-5 minutes without moving the fish. Then, carefully flip the fillets and brush the top side with some of the herb citrus glaze. Continue grilling for another 4-5 minutes, brushing occasionally with more glaze, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 4: Serving:

Transfer the grilled salmon to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top of the fish. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and chopped green onions. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides such as quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips and Variations:

Tip 1: Marinade the Salmon:

If you have time, marinate the salmon fillets in the herb citrus glaze for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will infuse the fish with even more flavor.

Tip 2: Adjust the Citrus:

Feel free to adjust the type and amount of citrus juices based on what you have on hand or personal preference. Grapefruit, lime, or blood orange juices can be used instead of or in addition to lemon and orange.

Tip 3: Gluten-Free Option:

To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free. Some brands contain wheat flour as an ingredient. Always check the label.

Tip 4: Make it Ahead:

The herb citrus glaze can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before using.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 550mg
Total Carbohydrates: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 28g

Conclusion:

Grilled Salmon with Herb Citrus Glaze is a perfect choice for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for those who want to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without too much fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.