Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, infused with smoky flavors and caramelized BBQ sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This BBQ Smoke Grilled Salmon recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a seafood lover looking to impress your guests, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and deliver restaurant-quality results right in your own backyard.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon by patting the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning and searing.
- Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Brush each salmon fillet with olive oil, which will help prevent sticking and promote even browning on the grill.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F, and clean the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- If using a charcoal or wood chip grill, add wood chips like hickory or applewood for additional smoky flavor.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill grates, and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to create nice grill marks.
- Carefully flip the salmon and brush the top with BBQ sauce, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly.
- Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145°F.
- Remove salmon from the grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the grilled salmon.
Tips
- Pat the salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear and prevent steaming.
- Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Preheat your grill thoroughly and clean the grates to prevent sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks.
- For an extra smoky flavor, experiment with different wood chips like hickory or applewood.
- Don't overcook the salmon - aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for a perfectly moist and flaky result.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately and avoid dry, overcooked fish.
- Choose a BBQ sauce that complements the salmon's natural flavor - a slightly sweet and tangy sauce works best.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 546kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 39g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 109mg
