Sweet and Savory Best BBQ Salmon Recipe for Summer Grilling Success

The Best BBQ Salmon Recipe for Perfect Summer Grilling

Looking for the best BBQ salmon recipe that will impress your family and friends? This mouthwatering grilled salmon with a sweet and savory soy-brown sugar glaze is guaranteed to become your new favorite. The caramelized exterior and tender, flaky interior create the perfect balance of flavors that complement salmon’s natural richness.

Why This BBQ Salmon Recipe Works

Salmon is one of the most forgiving fish to grill, making this BBQ salmon recipe perfect for both beginners and experienced grillers. The natural oils in salmon help keep it moist during cooking, while the sweet-savory marinade creates an irresistible caramelized exterior.

What makes this recipe stand out:

• Simple ingredients – Just a few pantry staples create incredible flavor
• Perfect texture – Crispy exterior with a tender, flaky interior
• Versatile – Works with any cut of salmon (fillets or steaks)
• Quick preparation – Just 10 minutes of active prep time

Ingredients for the Perfect BBQ Salmon

• 1.5 pounds salmon fillets
• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
• ⅓ cup water
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for extra BBQ flavor

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Salmon: Choose wild-caught salmon when possible for the best flavor. King (Chinook) and Sockeye salmon work beautifully for grilling due to their higher fat content.

Soy sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.

Brown sugar: Light or dark both work well. For a different flavor profile, try maple syrup or honey.

How to Make the Best BBQ Salmon Recipe

1. In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, vegetable oil, garlic, lemon juice, and black pepper. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Place salmon fillets in a glass baking dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, making sure all parts are coated. If using a bag, press out excess air before sealing.
3. Refrigerate and let the salmon marinate for 2 hours. For a stronger flavor, you can marinate up to 4 hours, but not longer as the acid in the marinade will begin to “cook” the fish.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
5. Remove salmon from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Reserve some marinade for basting if desired.
6. Place salmon on the grill skin-side down first (if using skin-on fillets). This helps protect the delicate flesh and makes the fish easier to handle.
7. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but is still moist in the center. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
8. If desired, brush with reserved marinade during the last minute of grilling for extra flavor and shine.
9. Carefully remove from the grill and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Grilling Salmon to Perfection

• Use a fish grilling basket if you’re worried about the salmon sticking or breaking apart on the grill.
• Don’t overcook! Salmon continues cooking after being removed from the heat. Take it off when it reaches 125°F internally for medium doneness.
• Grill with the lid closed to maintain consistent temperature and create an oven-like environment.
• Let salmon come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Salmon

This BBQ salmon recipe pairs wonderfully with:

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Cilantro lime rice
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted baby potatoes with herbs
• Corn on the cob

For a beautiful presentation, serve the salmon on a platter garnished with lemon wedges, fresh herbs (dill or parsley work great), and a light drizzle of olive oil.

Storing and Reheating Leftover BBQ Salmon

If you happen to have leftover salmon (though it’s unlikely with this delicious recipe!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat without drying out:

• Warm in a 275°F oven for about 15 minutes
• Or enjoy cold in salads or grain bowls for a protein-packed meal

Variations on This BBQ Salmon Recipe

Spicy BBQ Salmon

Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Herb-Infused BBQ Salmon

Add 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to the marinade.

Citrus BBQ Salmon

Replace half the water with orange juice and add 1 tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.

Nutrition Information

FAQ About Making the Best BBQ Salmon Recipe

Can I make this BBQ salmon in the oven?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the marinated salmon on a lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

How do I know when salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still maintains some translucency in the center. For medium doneness, cook to an internal temperature of 125-130°F.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating. Pat it dry with paper towels before adding to the marinade.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

To make this recipe keto-friendly, simply replace the brown sugar with a brown sugar substitute or a small amount of keto-friendly sweetener.

When it comes to summer grilling, you simply can’t beat this best BBQ salmon recipe for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ease of preparation, and impressive results. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes