Description
Tender salmon fillets marinated in a bright lemon and garlic mixture, grilled to perfection and served with a vibrant, creamy cilantro sauce. This fresh, flavorful recipe is a quick and healthy meal perfect for summer dinners, combining Mediterranean and Mexican-inspired flavors for a delightful seafood main course.
Ingredients
Salmon Marinade
- 4 salmon fillets, about 150–180 g each
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cilantro Sauce
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt, optional
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1–2 tbsp water, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon marinade: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Pour this marinade evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Allow to marinate for 15–30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Make the cilantro sauce: While the salmon marinates, add the fresh cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic clove, Greek yogurt (if using), cumin, salt, and black pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 4–5 minutes without moving them to develop a nice sear. Carefully flip the fillets and grill for an additional 3–4 minutes, adjusting based on thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the grill and plate immediately. Serve with the prepared cilantro sauce alongside fresh lemon wedges. Complement with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Do not marinate the salmon for longer than 30 minutes as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to ‘cook’ and alter the texture of the fish.
- Keep your grill grates well-oiled to prevent the salmon fillets from sticking and tearing.
- The cilantro sauce can be adjusted with extra lime juice or yogurt for different flavor or creaminess levels.
- Pair this dish with light sides like grilled veggies or a citrusy salad to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired, Mexican-inspired
