Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece with this mouthwatering Barbecued Salmon with Basil recipe! Imagine tender, perfectly grilled salmon infused with aromatic basil and zesty lemon, creating a dish so delicious it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a weekend cooking enthusiast, this recipe promises to elevate your outdoor cooking game and impress everyone at your table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and allows the seasoning to adhere better.
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh basil, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated. This will create a flavorful marinade for the salmon.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the basil marinade over the salmon, ensuring that each fillet is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish.
- While the salmon is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to become ashy and glowing before cooking.
- Once the grill is ready, remove the salmon from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. You can discard the leftover marinade.
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- After 6-8 minutes, carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula. Grill for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- To serve, place the grilled salmon fillets on a platter. You can garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or lemon wedges for a pop of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your barbecued salmon with basil alongside your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- • Always start with fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. • Pat the salmon dry before marinating to help the seasoning stick and achieve a perfect sear. • Don't over-marinate the fish - 15-30 minutes is ideal to prevent the acid from breaking down the delicate salmon proteins. • Ensure your grill is preheated and clean to prevent sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks. • Use a meat thermometer to check that the salmon reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F. • Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and tender. • Experiment with different herb combinations or add a touch of honey to the marinade for varied flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
