12 Grilled Salmon Recipes That Bring Restaurant Flavor To Your Backyard

There’s something undeniably special about a perfectly grilled salmon—crispy, caramelized skin giving way to tender, flaky flesh infused with smoky char and bold seasonings. It’s the kind of dish that feels luxurious, the kind you’d order at a high-end restaurant. But what if you could recreate that magic in your own backyard? No reservations, no steep prices—just you, your grill, and a lineup of showstopping salmon recipes that rival any chef’s special.

This collection is all about turning your grill into a gourmet kitchen. Whether you love classic cedar-planked salmon with a sweet maple glaze, spicy blackened fillets with a Cajun kick, or citrus-marinated salmon topped with fresh herb butter, we’ve got a recipe to match your cravings. Imagine the sizzle as salmon hits the hot grates, the aroma of garlic, lemon, and smoky wood chips filling the air. Picture that first bite—juicy, flavorful, and packed with the kind of depth that makes you close your eyes and savor it.

But great grilled salmon isn’t just about the fish—it’s about the techniques, the marinades, the finishing touches that take it from good to unforgettable. We’ll share secrets for keeping salmon moist (no dry, overcooked fillets here!), the best wood chips for smoking, and how to pair each dish with vibrant sides like grilled asparagus, herbed rice, or tangy mango salsa. Whether you’re a grilling pro or a first-timer, these recipes are designed to deliver restaurant-quality results every time.

So fire up the grill, grab your favorite salmon cut, and get ready to impress. From quick weeknight dinners to weekend feasts with friends, these 12 recipes will make your backyard the hottest table in town.

Spicy Cajun Salmon Skewers

Spicy Cajun Salmon Skewers are a quick and tasty way to elevate your grilling game. The bold Cajun seasoning gives the salmon a delightful kick, making each bite a flavor-packed treat. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

These skewers are not just about the heat; they balance well with the richness of the salmon. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 small onion, cut into chunks
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, combine salmon cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and lemon juice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prep the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated salmon, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
3. Grill: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side.

Mediterranean Style Salmon with Olives

This Mediterranean Style Salmon with Olives is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your dinner table. The combination of juicy salmon, briny olives, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

The rich taste of the salmon pairs perfectly with the tangy olives and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, creating a delicious balance. You can whip this up in no time, and it’s sure to impress anyone at your table. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets.
3. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down, and grill for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
4. During the last few minutes of grilling, add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the grill to warm them up.
5. Serve the salmon topped with the grilled tomatoes and olives, and garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.

Honey Mustard Salmon in Foil

Honey mustard salmon in foil is a delicious and simple way to enjoy this flavorful fish. The sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze enhances the natural richness of the salmon, making each bite a treat. Plus, cooking it in foil ensures that the salmon stays moist and tender, while also making cleanup a breeze.

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a beautiful dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant right in your own backyard.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slices of lemon
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut a large piece of aluminum foil and place the salmon fillets in the center. Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over the salmon.
4. Top the fillets with lemon slices and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
5. Fold the foil around the salmon to create a sealed packet.
6. Place the foil packet on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Carefully remove the packet from the grill, open it up, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious honey mustard salmon!

Maple Glazed Grilled Salmon

Maple glazed grilled salmon is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The rich taste of the salmon pairs beautifully with the caramelized notes of maple syrup, creating a mouthwatering experience that feels gourmet yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.

This recipe is a fantastic way to impress your guests or enjoy a special meal at home. With just a few ingredients and a quick grilling technique, you can have restaurant-quality salmon right in your backyard!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Transfer the salmon to a serving platter, drizzle with any remaining marinade, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Chimichurri Salmon Tacos

Chimichurri salmon tacos are a delicious way to enjoy fresh grilled salmon with a zesty twist. The combination of the juicy, flaky salmon topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce creates a burst of flavors that will take your taste buds on a delightful ride. Perfect for a casual dinner or a backyard gathering, these tacos are simple to make and sure to impress.

The chimichurri sauce adds a fresh herby note that complements the rich taste of the salmon. Wrap it all up in warm tortillas, and you have a dish that feels restaurant-worthy yet is easy enough to whip up any day of the week. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 lb salmon fillet
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 8 small tortillas
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prep the Salmon: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Make the Chimichurri: In a bowl, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, and red wine vinegar. Slowly whisk in olive oil until well blended. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon on the grill skin-side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Warm the Tortillas: While the salmon is grilling, warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Once the salmon is cooked, flake it into large pieces. Place the salmon in the tortillas, drizzle with chimichurri sauce, and garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
6. Serve: Enjoy the tacos with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of juice!

Herbed Dijon Salmon Steaks

This Herbed Dijon Salmon recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your backyard. The combination of fresh herbs and tangy Dijon mustard creates a mouthwatering flavor that perfectly complements the rich salmon.

Not only is it simple to make, but it also looks impressive on the plate, making it great for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners. With just a few ingredients, you can have a flavorful and healthy dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon steaks
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3. Grill the Salmon: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated salmon on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with a wedge of lemon and your favorite side dishes.

Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of lemon and garlic with rich, buttery salmon. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also brings a gourmet touch to your backyard grilling. The zesty lemon enhances the natural flavor of the fish, while the garlic adds a savory depth that will please any palate.

Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe takes minimal time and effort. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a meal that tastes like it came straight from a fine dining restaurant!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled.
4. Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, then carefully flip and grill for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve with lemon slices on the side, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Teriyaki Salmon with Pineapple

Teriyaki Salmon with Pineapple is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of grilled salmon with the sweetness of teriyaki sauce and fresh pineapple. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen, making it perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners.

The savory and sweet notes of the teriyaki sauce beautifully complement the salmon’s natural richness, while caramelized pineapple adds a tropical twist. It’s a simple yet stunning dish that will impress anyone who tries it!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce and salmon fillets. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Toss the diced pineapple in olive oil and grill for about 2-3 minutes until caramelized. Remove and set aside.
3. Grill the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Plate the grilled salmon and top it with the caramelized pineapple. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Smoky Paprika Salmon with Asparagus

This Smoky Paprika Salmon with Asparagus is a delightful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the earthy flavor of paprika. The smoky notes add depth, while the asparagus provides a fresh crunch, making it a perfect pairing. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for a weekday dinner or a weekend barbecue.

The vibrant colors and savory aroma will have everyone gathering around the grill. Plus, this dish is a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet without the hassle.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the salmon fillets.
3. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down. Add the asparagus and cherry tomatoes around the salmon. Grill for about 6-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. In the last minute of grilling, add lemon slices on top of the salmon for added flavor.
5. Remove everything from the grill and serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon juice if desired.

Pesto Grilled Salmon with Tomato Salad

Pesto grilled salmon is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of fresh basil and garlic with the tender, flaky goodness of salmon. The combination creates a bright, zesty taste that feels like a gourmet meal right in your backyard. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

This recipe pairs beautifully with a fresh tomato salad, enhancing the overall experience with a burst of color and flavor. The juicy tomatoes and fragrant herbs complement the grilled salmon perfectly, making it a meal that’s not only tasty but visually appealing as well. Get ready to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread 2 tablespoons of pesto on each salmon fillet, ensuring even coverage.
3. Season the fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes. Flip and grill for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
5. While the salmon is grilling, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Once the salmon is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. Serve the salmon topped with the tomato salad and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Cilantro Lime Salmon with Avocado Salsa

This Cilantro Lime Salmon recipe is a delightful blend of zesty flavors and freshness. The salmon is marinated in a vibrant cilantro and lime mixture, giving it a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado salsa.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also super simple to make. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe brings a taste of the restaurant right to your backyard.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (for salsa)
• Salt to taste (for salsa)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, combine diced avocado, cucumber, red bell pepper, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Gently toss to combine.
3. Grill the Salmon: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated salmon fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flaky.
4. Serve: Plate the grilled salmon and top with the avocado salsa. Enjoy your fresh and zesty meal!

Sesame Ginger Salmon with Rice

Sesame Ginger Salmon is a delightful dish that combines tender salmon fillets with a zesty marinade of sesame oil, fresh ginger, and soy sauce. This recipe is not only packed with flavor but is also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The harmony of the sweet and savory notes, along with a hint of nuttiness from the sesame seeds, elevates the salmon to a restaurant-quality meal right in your own backyard.

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, which absorbs all the delicious flavors of the marinade. Topped with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this simple yet sophisticated recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, honey, and rice vinegar. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a grill pan, preheat it on the stovetop.
3. Grill the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Place the fillets on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Prepare the Rice: While the salmon is grilling, prepare your rice according to package instructions. Fluff and set aside.
5. Serve: Place a portion of rice on each plate, top with grilled salmon, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts
Grilled salmon doesn’t have to be a special-occasion splurge—it can be your secret weapon for easy, elegant meals any night of the week. With these recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this versatile, heart-healthy fish. Whether you’re craving something simple and herby or bold and spicy, there’s a grilled salmon dish here that’ll hit the spot. So go ahead—take your outdoor cooking to the next level and prove that the best seafood dinner doesn’t come from a fancy restaurant… it comes from your grill.