Grilled salmon is one of my favorite ways to eat the delicious omega-3 packed fish. The natural oils from the salmon keep the fish moist on the inside while you grill. I used to get intimidated buying fish with the bones and skin on it, but after learning how easy filleting and cooking a fish can be, I now almost always buy the salmon with the skin intact. Here is a fabulous recipe for Perfectly Grilled Salmon with Soy Sauce and Lemon Marinade.

#1. Heat & Prep The Grill: If you are using coals, you have to light them up and keep the fire burning. Cover the grill with a lid so the coals stay lit. Next, wait until the coals turn ashen grey. This step takes Patience! Sometimes it takes 30-40 minutes for the coals to get really hot. It’s important to have the coals hot in order to put a good sear on the salmon. If using a gas grill (like I did), heat it up and then put it on medium heat to cook the salmon through. Always work with a clean grill so the salmon doesn’t stick to it. I also oil the grill with olive oil for some extra lube.

#2. Prep The Salmon: Wash off any extra scales from the salmon and if necessary use a knife to lightly scrape the excess scales away. Cut the salmon down the middle so you have 2 fillets. Remove any excess bones.

You will also need 1 white onion, 1 lemon, and ¼ cup soy sauce for the dressing. Slice the onion into big rings. Slice the lemon into rings.

#3. Grill The Salmon: Over medium heat (so the flames are not high), put the flesh side of the salmon down first for 3-4 minutes to get some good grill lines on it.

Next, flip over the salmon skin-side down on the grill.

Brush the salmon with the soy sauce and get those juices in. Add the onions and lemons. Let cook for 3-4 minutes. Remove the salmon from the hot area of the grill (if you have a second level, move the salmon to this area) and cook for 2 minutes more. Remove from the grill and eat.

Grilling salmon is very easy and has minimal clean-up. Enjoy this Perfectly Grilled Salmon with Soy Sauce and Lemon Marinade this summer season. For more grilling tips and tricks see past posts:

Get more grilling recipes:
Grilled Romaine Lettuce with Anchovy Vinaigrette and Blue Cheese Dressing
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Get the best grilling tips & marinades:
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What are your favorite sides to eat with grilled salmon? Comment below and let me know.

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN

PS: for more incredible grilling inspiration, check out Zimmy’s Nook – he’s a Grill Master from Canada and has some of the tastiest recipes.