Grilling Salmon: A Chef's Guide to Perfectly Cooked Fish

Grilling salmon is one of my absolute favorite ways to prepare this versatile fish. It's not only incredibly tasty, but it also showcases the delicate flavor of the salmon while adding a beautiful char from the grill. My go-to methods include grilling with lemon slices, rosemary, salt, pepper, and garlic, or using a foil pouch with butter for added richness.

I have a weekly habit of buying salmon, which keeps our household stocky and well-fed. Our butcher fillets fresh, caught fish daily, and I've even bought whole half-salmon fillets. However, the tail is a no-go for me. It's best to prepare salmon fillets on a hot grill and turn them only once for that perfect, seared look. Depending on the size, a 3/4 pound fillet should cook for around ten minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it remains rare to medium rare, achieving the characteristic pink salmon-flavored cream center.

Brining for Moist and Flavored Salmon

For an even better grilling experience, I like to prepare the salmon with a brine. This technique keeps the fish moist, even when it's slightly overcooked, and helps to develop a crispy exterior. To brine, combine 2 cups of water with 1 tablespoon of white sugar, 1 1/2 tablespoons of kosher salt, and a pinch of baking soda. Brine the salmon for about 30 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly and pat dry. Brush the salmon with a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice in a 3:2 ratio, followed by a generous sprinkle of coarse sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a hint of garlic powder. To enhance the flavor even further, add chopped fresh dill, pressing it into the flesh with your fingers.

The Grilling Process

After prepping the salmon, it's time to get it on the grill. Use a high heat and leave the skin on, which helps to retain moisture and adds a delightful crunch. Once the skin is nicely charred, turn the salmon fillets once and let them cook until they reach an internal temperature of 125-130°F (51-54°C). If you're unsure, always use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked properly.

Accompaniments and Pairings

For a delightful meal, pair your grilled salmon with some of these side dishes:

Herbed Grilled Potatoes: These light and flavorful potatoes complement the rich, smoky taste of the grilled salmon. Charred Asparagus: The smoky flavor of the asparagus pairs perfectly with lemon and garlic, creating a harmonious contrast to the delicate salmon.

Move on to a glass of Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. This wine provides the perfect counterbalance to the richness of the salmon and its side dishes. For dessert, enjoy a sweet and creamy treat like vanilla ice cream with fresh blueberries and chopped pistachio nuts, drizzled with a bit of jam for an extra boost of flavor.

This meal is not only delicious but also quite simple. With a little practice, you'll be well on your way to creating perfect grilled salmon dishes at home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, following these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results each time.

Conclusion

Grilling salmon is an art, but with patience, practice, and a few simple techniques, you'll be able to create a meal that's as mouthwatering as it is satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy the flavors of the grill in your very own kitchen.