Grill Outside
Salmon is the most popular fish for a reason – it’s easy, delicious, and nutritious. The best way to cook Thai Grilled salmon is on the outside grill. The high heat perfectly cooks it and crisps up the skin. Another advantage of grilling fish outdoors is that it keeps that distinct smell outside and provides low clean-up.
Side Dishes
What Type of Salmon to Buy?
Salmon falls into two categories: Atlantic and Pacific, and this article from Cooking Light provides a buying guide. I usually get farm-raised Atlantic Salmon because it is affordable. Look for a shop that procures from sustainable sources. Purchase large filets or fillets cut into steaks with the skin to add protection during cooking. Allow 5- 6 ounces per serving.
Best Way to Prepare Salmon
Salmon does not have to marinate long to enhance the flavor – 15 minutes to 30 minutes will do the trick. It really is not marinating. It is more like a rub of oil and some flavors. The oil helps keep the fish from sticking to the grill, and any flavors that coordinate with your side dishes will work. Lemon, garlic, lime, soy sauce are all good flavor enhancers. For this recipe, I chose lime and cilantro because it goes well with Southeast Asian or Mexican-inspired dishes.
Helpful Equipment
- Outdoor Grill
- Grill Basket
- Grill Pan if cooking indoors
Using a grill basket or rack is an essential piece of equipment when grilling something delicate like salmon. The basket helps keep the fillets from sticking to the grill but allows those yummy grill marks on the fish. However, I cook salmon on the stove-top grill pan on rainy days or when I’ve discovered, too late, that the propane is on its last fumes. If you want to cook indoors, try either of these recipes:
Thai Grilled Salmon
Salmon is the most popular fish because it’s easy, delicious, and nutritious. The best way to cook Thai Grilled Salmon is to grill it outside with this easy citrus marinade.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Fish & Seafood
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1.25 – 1.5 – pounds salmon fillet or (4) 5-6 oz. skin-on salmon fillets (1 per serving)
- 1 lime zested and juiced – reserve some zest for garnish after cooking
- 1 lime, sliced
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (reserve a small amount for garnish)
Instructions
- Whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl.
- Place salmon on a plate skin side down, pour marinade over pieces, and top with lime slices. Sit fish on the counter for 15 – 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to 400º.
- Brush the fish basket with olive oil and place the fish inside and close and lock the handle.
- Place fish skin side down on the grill and cook for 8 – 10 minutes. Turn and cook for an additional 2– 3 minutes. This skin side can take more heat than- the flesh side, so I do that side a little longer. Fish is done when it is the same color throughout.
- Place on a platter and cut into individual pieces.
- Sprinkle with lime zest and cilantro.
Notes
Excellent with Basmati Rice Pilaf and Zucchini in Coconut Sauce. If eating a paleo diet, eliminate the rice.
8 responses to “Thai Grilled Salmon with Easy Citrus Marinade”
This is absolutely fantastic!
Hi Lynn, thanks so much for your stamp of approval. It’s definitely a family favorite and great for entertaining, as well!
Loved this recipe! The salmon was perfect and the flavors were a wonderful combination!
Hi Kris, thanks for cooking this recipe. I’m so happy it was a hit!
This salmon is light and flavorful. Love the citrus flavor with the cilantro. Definitely a repeat!
Hi Julie, so happy to hear the recipe was a success and it made the cut to your recipe collection.
I am allergic to salmon, so substituted the salmon for mahi mahi. It turned out delicious!
Great suggestions!