12 BBQ Salmon Recipes That Make Healthy Eating Delicious

Eating healthy doesn’t have to mean bland, boring meals—especially when you’ve got a perfectly grilled, smoky, flavor-packed BBQ salmon on your plate. Salmon is already a superstar of nutritious eating, loaded with heart-healthy omega-3s, lean protein, and a rich, buttery texture that makes every bite satisfying. But when you throw it on the grill (or even bake it with BBQ-inspired flavors), it transforms into something truly irresistible—charred edges, sticky-sweet glazes, and bold spices that prove healthy food can be downright indulgent.

In this list, we’re sharing 12 BBQ salmon recipes that turn this powerhouse fish into a meal you’ll crave. Whether you love classic smoky flavors with a brown sugar bourbon glaze, spicy chipotle-lime marinades, or tangy honey-mustard finishes, there’s a recipe here to match your taste. Imagine tender, flaky salmon straight off the grill, caramelized with a sticky maple glaze, or coated in a zesty garlic-herb rub that pairs perfectly with crisp summer veggies. We’ve included options for cedar-plank grilling, foil-packet ease, and even oven-baked versions for those nights when firing up the BBQ isn’t an option.

And the best part? These recipes aren’t just delicious—they’re quick, simple, and designed to fit into busy weeknights or weekend cookouts. Serve them with a fresh salad, grilled asparagus, or a scoop of quinoa for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is mouthwatering. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to fall in love with salmon all over again.

Teriyaki BBQ Salmon with Pineapple Salsa

This Teriyaki BBQ Salmon with Pineapple Salsa is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a refreshing way. The rich teriyaki glaze complements the tender salmon, while the vibrant pineapple salsa adds a bright, tropical touch. Perfect for grilling season, this recipe is not only flavorful but also quick and simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of grilled salmon and fresh pineapple will have everyone asking for seconds. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a deliciously healthy meal!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce and olive oil. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, mix the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high.
4. Grill the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Serve: Top the grilled salmon with the fresh pineapple salsa and enjoy!

Maple Mustard BBQ Salmon with Sweet Potatoes

Maple Mustard BBQ Salmon offers a delightful mix of flavors that are both sweet and tangy. This recipe is a breeze to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. The combination of maple syrup and mustard creates a rich glaze that complements the salmon beautifully, while the roasted sweet potatoes add a comforting touch.

Pairing the salmon with sweet potatoes not only boosts the nutritional value but also brings in earthy sweetness and a lovely texture. This dish is not just healthy, but it also delivers on taste, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the maple mustard mixture generously on top of each fillet.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the same baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Lemon Dill BBQ Salmon with Grilled Vegetables

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty way to enjoy healthy eating, this Lemon Dill BBQ Salmon is perfect. The bright flavors of lemon and dill complement the rich, buttery taste of the salmon, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. It’s a simple recipe that packs a punch, ideal for those busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.

Pairing this salmon with grilled vegetables not only adds color to your plate but also brings a smokiness that enhances the dish. This combination is not just delicious but also provides a well-rounded meal full of nutrients. Let’s get into the ingredients and how to whip this up!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced and sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Grill the Vegetables: On a grill basket or skewers, grill the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled salmon alongside the vegetables and garnish with lemon slices and additional dill if desired.

Honey Lime BBQ Salmon Tacos with Avocado

Honey Lime BBQ Salmon Tacos offer a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors wrapped in a soft tortilla. They are simple to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The salmon is grilled to perfection, infused with a delicious honey lime marinade that elevates each bite.

Loaded with fresh avocado, crunchy red onions, and vibrant cilantro, these tacos are not just tasty but also packed with nutrients. They are satisfying and will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 lb salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the Salmon: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the salmon for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Prepare the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. Flake the grilled salmon into bite-sized pieces.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place flaked salmon on each tortilla, add avocado slices, red onion, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

Spicy Chipotle BBQ Salmon Skewers

These Spicy Chipotle BBQ Salmon Skewers are a delightful way to enjoy healthy eating without compromising on flavor. The salmon is marinated in a zesty chipotle BBQ sauce that adds a kick, making it perfect for grilling season. Simple to prepare, these skewers are great for both quick weeknight dinners and casual gatherings with friends.

With the smoky heat of chipotle and a hint of sweetness, each bite is bursting with taste. Plus, the beautiful presentation on skewers makes them fun to serve, ensuring everyone will be coming back for more. Ready to give it a try? Here’s what you’ll need!

Ingredients

• 1 lb salmon fillets, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup chipotle BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the chipotle BBQ sauce, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Add the salmon cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Skewer the Salmon: Thread the marinated salmon onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Garlic Herb BBQ Salmon with Quinoa Salad

This Garlic Herb BBQ Salmon is a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste. The salmon is marinated in a delightful mix of garlic, herbs, and BBQ sauce, which creates a mouthwatering crust during grilling. The result is a tender and flaky piece of fish that’s bursting with flavor, paired beautifully with a light quinoa salad.

Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. The quinoa salad adds a refreshing crunch, with a medley of vegetables that enhance the dish’s overall appeal. Get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s nutritious and satisfying!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
3. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with lemon juice, season with salt, and mix well.
4. Grill the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated salmon fillets for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled salmon alongside the quinoa salad and enjoy!

Cilantro Lime BBQ Salmon with Mango Salsa

This Cilantro Lime BBQ Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the smoky flavor of grilled salmon with the refreshing zest of cilantro and lime. Topped with a vibrant mango salsa, it bursts with flavor and color, making it a treat for both the eyes and the palate. It’s simple to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.

The sweet and tangy mango salsa complements the savory salmon beautifully. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors, making healthy eating undeniably delicious!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and diced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the salmon fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Mango Salsa: In another bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, honey, and lime juice. Toss well and set aside.
3. Grill the Salmon: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the salmon skin-side down for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flaky.
4. Serve: Place the grilled salmon on a plate and top generously with mango salsa. Enjoy with lime wedges on the side.

Miso Glazed BBQ Salmon with Grilled Asparagus

Miso glazed BBQ salmon is a delightful dish that combines rich, savory flavors with the fresh taste of grilled asparagus. The sweet and salty miso glaze caramelizes beautifully on the salmon, creating a mouthwatering crust while keeping the fish tender and juicy. This recipe is not only simple to make but also a healthy option that packs a punch in the flavor department.

Pairing the salmon with grilled asparagus adds a lovely crunch and a burst of freshness. This combination is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, making healthy eating a delicious experience.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
3. Prepare the Asparagus: Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon on the grill, skin side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
5. Grill the Asparagus: While the salmon is grilling, add the asparagus. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve: Plate the salmon and asparagus, garnishing with chopped green onions. Enjoy your healthy meal!

Pesto BBQ Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto BBQ Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with the fresh, herby notes of pesto. This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The burst of cherry tomatoes adds a sweet and juicy contrast that complements the savory salmon beautifully.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both healthy and delicious. The pesto brings a vibrant green color and a burst of flavor, while the grilling adds that smoky touch that everyone loves. Let’s dive right into how to make this scrumptious dish!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Spread a generous amount of basil pesto on each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes before gently flipping them. Grill for another 4-5 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
5. In the last few minutes of grilling, add the seasoned cherry tomatoes to the grill. Cook until they are slightly charred and softened.
6. Serve the pesto BBQ salmon with the grilled cherry tomatoes and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top.

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Salmon with Broccoli

This Sweet and Spicy BBQ Salmon with Broccoli is a delightful dish that perfectly balances rich flavor and healthy ingredients. The salmon is glazed with a sweet yet spicy barbecue sauce that brings a mouthwatering twist to your dinner table. Paired with vibrant, tender broccoli, this recipe is not only simple but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

With its combination of sweet heat and nutritious greens, this dish makes healthy eating feel indulgent. You’ll love how the flavors meld together, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Ready to try it out? Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet and brush the sauce mixture generously over the top of each fillet.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them around the salmon on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The broccoli should be bright and tender.
6. Serve immediately, drizzling any leftover sauce from the baking sheet over the salmon and broccoli.

Asian Sesame BBQ Salmon with Cabbage Slaw

This Asian Sesame BBQ Salmon is a delightful blend of flavors that brings healthy eating to a whole new level. With its tender, flakey salmon coated in a sweet and savory barbecue sauce, it offers a burst of taste that dances on your palate. The added crunch of the cabbage slaw complements the richness of the fish, making this dish not only delicious but also refreshing.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is simple to make and requires minimal prep time. The ingredients come together quickly, ensuring that you can serve a healthy meal without hassle. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1/2 medium green cabbage, shredded
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cabbage Slaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced green onions. Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil and toss to combine.
3. Grill the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Plate the grilled salmon alongside the cabbage slaw. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch and garnish.

Cajun BBQ Salmon with Corn on the Cob

This Cajun BBQ Salmon is a fantastic way to bring bold flavors to your dinner table without a lot of fuss. With its spicy seasoning and smoky undertones, it’s a treat for the taste buds. Pairing it with sweet corn on the cob makes it a perfect summer dish that’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare.

This recipe is great for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The salmon cooks quickly, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal in no time. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking it in the oven, this dish brings a taste of the south right to your home.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over them. Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
3. If grilling, place the corn directly on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender. For oven cooking, wrap corn in foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.
4. Grill or bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove everything from the grill or oven. Toss the corn with butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve the salmon with the corn on the side, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Final Thoughts
Healthy eating should never feel like a sacrifice—and with these BBQ salmon recipes, it won’t. Each dish proves that nutritious meals can be bold, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself. From sweet and smoky to spicy and herb-infused, these recipes give you endless ways to enjoy salmon without ever getting bored. So next time you’re craving something wholesome but delicious, skip the dull steamed fish and try one of these BBQ masterpieces instead. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!