Grilled marinated salmon

Grilled Marinated Salmon: A Savory Delight

If you are looking for a simple, quick, and delicious recipe, grilled marinated salmon is the perfect choice. This dish not only offers a refined taste but is also a healthy option, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Below, I will guide you step by step in preparing this delight, providing you with useful tips and variations to inspire you.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Total: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- For the salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 150-200 g each)
- 1 head of garlic
- Juice from 2 large lemons
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste

- For the sauce:
- Marinade from the salmon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2-3 tablespoons full-fat yogurt

- For the side:
- Grilled cherry tomatoes
- Broccoli sautéed in butter

Preparing the Marinade

1. Washing the Salmon: Start by washing the salmon fillets under cold running water. This helps remove impurities and any residues.

2. Seasoning: In a bowl, add the washed salmon and season with salt and pepper. These simple spices will enhance the flavors brought by the other ingredients.

3. Preparing the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine crushed garlic, olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, rosemary stripped from the sprigs, and finely chopped parsley. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous marinade.

4. Marinating the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Marinating will not only add intense flavor but will also make the salmon meat more tender.

Preparing the Grilled Salmon

1. Heating the Grill: While the salmon is marinating, heat the grill to a medium-high temperature. It is essential for the grill to be well-heated to achieve those beautiful grill marks and a crispy texture.

2. Cooking the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes. Use a wide spatula to flip the fillets. This step is crucial as it helps maintain the integrity of the salmon.

3. Finishing Cooking: After flipping the salmon, let it grill for another 2-3 minutes. Check if it is cooked, but be careful not to overcook it, as salmon can dry out quickly.

Preparing the Sauce

1. Making the Sauce: In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the marinade you used for the salmon and let it come to a boil. This will intensify the flavors, and the butter will add extra richness.

2. Finishing the Sauce: Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool slightly before adding the yogurt. Mix well to obtain a creamy and flavorful sauce, ideal for accompanying the salmon.

Side Dish

1. Grilled Cherry Tomatoes: Place the cherry tomatoes on the grill, allowing them to brown for 2-3 minutes. The sweet taste of the tomatoes will perfectly complement the salmon.

2. Sautéed Broccoli: In a pan, melt a little butter and add the chopped broccoli. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.

Serving

To serve, place the salmon fillets on a platter. Top them with the creamy sauce obtained and add the side of grilled cherry tomatoes and broccoli. A slice of lemon on each serving will add a touch of freshness and enhance the plate's appearance.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Salmon: Opt for fresh salmon with vibrant-colored flesh. Wild salmon is usually tastier and healthier than farmed salmon.
- Marinade Variation: You can experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or dill, to customize the flavor.
- Alternative Serving: Grilled marinated salmon pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or quinoa for a complete and healthy meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to cardiovascular health. It also contains essential vitamins, such as B12, and important minerals like selenium, which help strengthen the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and dry it well before marinating.
- What sides go well with grilled salmon? Besides tomatoes and broccoli, you can opt for asparagus, corn, or wild rice.
- How can I make the sauce spicier? Add a little ground chili pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.

Grilled marinated salmon is not only a delicious recipe but also a way to enjoy a nutrient-rich meal. Enjoy preparing this recipe and feel free to experiment with the ingredients to give it a personal touch! Bon appétit!