5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

This 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to summer barbecues. It combines simplicity with flavor, making it a standout choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With just five ingredients, this recipe showcases the natural taste of salmon while providing an easy path to a gourmet meal. Enjoying this grilled salmon means less time in the kitchen and more time savoring delicious food with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients: You only need five ingredients to create a flavorful dish, making shopping easy.
• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have your salmon ready to cook in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, dijon mustard, and garlic creates a rich marinade that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions, this grilled salmon pairs well with salads, vegetables, or grains.
• Easy Cleanup: Fewer ingredients mean less mess, allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about extensive cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this dish efficiently, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything on hand makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for getting that perfect char on your salmon, enhancing flavor through grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients into a smooth marinade without spills.
• Whisk: Helps emulsify the marinade, ensuring all flavors blend well together.

Ingredients

This grilled salmon is one of the best salmon recipes I’ve tried and it only takes FIVE ingredients. Bonus: there’s minimal prep and minimal clean up.

For the Salmon

• 3 lb. side of salmon (skin on)
• 3 Tbsp soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic (1 large clove)
• 1/3 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Lay the salmon skin side down on a cutting board. Cut it crosswise into six equal portions. Transfer these portions to a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with the skin side down.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until fully emulsified.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the marinade mixture. Spoon and spread the remaining marinade over the salmon pieces. Allow them to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat until it reaches about 400 degrees F. Clean the grill grates thoroughly and brush with additional oil.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon

Place the salmon on the grill skin side down. Cook for about four minutes before carefully flipping it (you can roll it gently). Continue cooking for another four minutes or until you reach your desired doneness.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Remove the skin from each piece of salmon after grilling. Plate your servings and brush with the reserved marinade mixture over each piece of salmon.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy!

Serve warm garnished with finely chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this delicious meal with friends or family!

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Serving your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens: Place the salmon over a mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine for a fresh salad option.
• Kale Salad: Serve with a hearty kale salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a nutrient-packed meal.

With Grains

• Quinoa: Pair the salmon with fluffy quinoa for added protein and texture.
• Couscous: Light, fluffy couscous complements the richness of salmon beautifully.

Accompanied by Dips

• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based dip that balances the flavors perfectly.
• Avocado Salsa: Top the salmon with a zesty avocado salsa for an extra flavor kick.

Garnished

• Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon adds brightness when squeezed over the grilled salmon.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill on top for added color and taste.

How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Perfecting your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Choose quality salmon: Select fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible for better flavor and texture.
• Marinate properly: Allow the salmon to marinate at room temperature. This enhances flavor absorption without cooking it prematurely.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the salmon on it. A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Use an oil brush: Lightly brush olive oil on both the grill grates and the salmon to prevent sticking.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on cook time. Overcooking can dry out your salmon; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Let it rest: Allowing the grilled salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving allows juices to redistribute and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Pairing sides with your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon can bring balance and variety to your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of roasted seasonal vegetables adds both nutrition and visual appeal.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the fish nicely.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus spears lightly steamed enhance your plate’s freshness and crunch.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs elevates any meal, pairing well with grilled salmon’s savory flavors.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with grilled salmon’s texture.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and balance out the savory marinade of your salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes can lead to less flavor. Always let it rest so all the ingredients soak in properly.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on your grill and aim for about 4 minutes on each side for perfect doneness.
• Not preheating the grill: Starting with a cold grill can prevent the salmon from searing correctly. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve that nice char.
• Ignoring the skin: Leaving the skin on during grilling helps keep the salmon moist. If you remove it too early, you risk losing flavor and moisture.
• Forgetting about presentation: While taste is key, presentation matters too. Garnish with parsley for an appealing touch that enhances your dish visually.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow salmon to cool completely before sealing.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.

Freezing 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Use a freezer-safe container if possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until just warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Heat salmon for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon recipe special?

This recipe is special because it requires only five ingredients, making it incredibly simple yet flavorful. The combination of soy sauce, dijon mustard, garlic, and olive oil creates a delicious marinade that enhances the natural taste of salmon without overwhelming it.

Can I customize the marinade for my grilled salmon?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like dill or rosemary, or switch up the mustard type. Experimenting with different flavors allows you to tailor this dish to your preference while still keeping it simple.

How do I know when my grilled salmon is done?

Your grilled salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on cooking time as overcooking can lead to dryness.

Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Yes, this marinade works well with other fish like trout or mahi-mahi. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the thickness of the fish.

Final Thoughts

5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Its simplicity makes it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Plus, you can customize it with various herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

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5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

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5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is a delectable and simple recipe that transforms fresh salmon into a gourmet dish with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive summer barbecues, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of salmon while keeping preparation easy and enjoyable. With just five staple ingredients—soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, and fresh parsley—this dish is not only quick to make but also ensures you spend more time savoring delicious food with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Whether served atop a bed of greens or alongside fluffy quinoa, this marinated grilled salmon promises an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 lb. side of salmon (skin on)
• 3 Tbsp soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic (1 large clove)
• 1/3 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the salmon by cutting it into six equal portions and placing them skin-side down in a baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil to create the marinade.
3. Reserve 2 tablespoons of marinade and spread the rest over the salmon pieces, letting them rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) and brush with oil.
5. Grill the salmon skin-side down for about four minutes before gently flipping it to cook for another four minutes until done.
6. Remove skin from each piece after grilling, brush with reserved marinade, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 0.2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg