Sweet and Savory BBQ Salmon: A Grilling Masterpiece for Summer Dinners

Perfectly Smoked BBQ Salmon with Sweet and Savory Glaze

There’s nothing quite like the smoky flavor of BBQ salmon cooked to perfection on the grill. This recipe combines a delicious sweet and savory marinade that caramelizes beautifully, creating a glaze that complements the rich, flaky texture of fresh salmon fillets.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Salmon Recipe

This grilled salmon recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and incredible flavor. The marinade requires just a few ingredients but transforms ordinary salmon into a backyard barbecue masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or trying your hand at seafood for the first time, this foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

Prep Time and Cooking Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 2 hours
• Grill Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 318 per serving

Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Salmon

• 1½ pounds fresh salmon fillets
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh herbs for garnish (dill or parsley)

How to Make Mouthwatering BBQ Salmon

1. Prepare the Marinade

   In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and black pepper until sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Marinate the Salmon

   Place salmon fillets in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all surfaces of the salmon are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 2 hours, turning occasionally for even flavor distribution.

3. Prepare the Grill

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Salmon

   Remove salmon from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Reserve some marinade for basting if desired. Place salmon skin-side down on the grill (or use a fish grilling basket for easier handling). Close the lid and grill for 4-5 minutes.

5. Flip and Finish

   Carefully flip the salmon using a wide spatula. If you reserved marinade, brush it over the salmon now. Grill for an additional 3-5 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside.

6. Rest and Serve

   Remove salmon from the grill and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Salmon

• Check for Pin Bones: Before marinating, run your fingers along the salmon fillets to feel for any pin bones and remove them with tweezers.
• Don’t Marinate Too Long: The acid in the marinade can begin to “cook” the fish if left too long. Two hours is ideal, but don’t exceed 4 hours.
• Use a Fish Basket: For easier handling and to prevent sticking, consider using a fish grilling basket.
• Cook Skin-Side Down First: Starting skin-side down helps create a natural barrier between the delicate flesh and the hot grill.
• Know When It’s Done: Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F or when it flakes easily with a fork while still maintaining a slightly translucent center.

Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Salmon

This flavorful grilled salmon pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Cilantro-lime rice
• Fresh garden salad with light vinaigrette
• Roasted garlic potatoes
• Warm crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices

Nutritional Information

Common Questions About BBQ Salmon

Can I make this BBQ salmon in the oven?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the marinated salmon on a lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes.

What type of salmon works best for grilling?

King (Chinook) and Sockeye salmon are excellent choices for grilling due to their higher fat content, which keeps them moist during cooking. Atlantic salmon is also widely available and works well.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! The marinade can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

You can substitute ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger for the fresh grated ginger in the marinade.

Why This BBQ Salmon Recipe Stands Out

The magic of this BBQ salmon recipe lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a slightly sweet crust that complements the natural richness of the salmon. The soy sauce adds just enough savory depth without overpowering the delicate fish flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a healthy weeknight dinner option, this grilled salmon recipe is sure to impress.

With minimal prep time and maximum flavor impact, this BBQ salmon deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection!

Recipe inspired by Grilled Salmon I from Allrecipes.