5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

This 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. With just five simple ingredients, this recipe combines ease and flavor for a meal that’s sure to please everyone. The marinade infuses the salmon with incredible taste while keeping cleanup minimal, making it one of my go-to salmon recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only five ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, dijon mustard, and garlic creates a mouthwatering marinade that elevates the salmon.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for casual meals or elegant gatherings, this salmon can be served with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables.
• Healthy Protein Source: Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
• Easy Cleanup: Minimal ingredients mean less mess in the kitchen—easy cooking means more time enjoying your meal!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this easy recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect charred flavor that makes grilled salmon irresistible.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Ensures all components of your marinade are well blended for maximum flavor.
• Cutting board: A safe surface for cutting salmon into portions without making a mess.

Ingredients

For this delicious 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, you’ll need:

For the Salmon

• 3 lb. side of salmon, skin on

For the Marinade

• 3 Tbsp soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic (1 large clove)
• 1/3 cup olive oil, plus more for brushing grill
• 1 Tbsp minced parsley (optional, for looks)

How to Make 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Lay the salmon skin side down on a cutting board.
2. Cut the salmon crosswise into six equal portions.
3. Transfer the pieces to a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with skin side down.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until fully emulsified.
2. Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the marinade mixture.
3. Spoon and spread the remaining marinade over the salmon portions.
4. Let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat to about 400 degrees F.
2. Clean the grill grates and brush them with oil.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

1. Place salmon on the grill skin side down.
2. Cook for about four minutes before carefully flipping it (you can roll it gently).
3. Continue cooking for another four minutes or until it reaches your desired doneness.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. Remove the skin from the grilled salmon pieces.
2. Plate each portion and brush with the reserved marinade mixture.
3. Serve warm, garnished with parsley if desired.

Enjoy this delightful 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon as a satisfying main course that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Serving your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in a light vinaigrette complements the richness of salmon.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with vegan Caesar dressing adds a creamy element without overpowering the fish.

With Grain Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa with herbs adds a nutty flavor that balances the savory salmon.
• Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous absorbs flavors well, making it an ideal base for pairing.

With Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the dish’s freshness.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with tender salmon.

With Sauces

• Chimichurri Sauce: This herby sauce adds a zesty kick that pairs nicely with grilled salmon.
• Lemon Dill Sauce: A creamy lemon dill sauce brings brightness to the dish, enhancing its flavors.

How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

To ensure your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is a hit every time, follow these tips for perfect results.

• Bold Marinade: Let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor penetration.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before cooking helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Salmon cooks quickly; check it often to avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Use Skin as Protection: Cooking skin-side down first helps keep the salmon moist and flavorful during grilling.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute for a tender bite.

Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Pairing side dishes with your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic make a comforting side that pairs perfectly.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the salmon.
3. Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty wild rice mixed with herbs provides a hearty complement to grilled salmon.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles keep things fresh while adding a fun twist to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with olive oil is sweet and smoky, enhancing the flavors of your dish.
6. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This refreshing salad adds protein and fiber, making it a great partner for salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Bold Marinade Missteps: Using too much marinade can overpower the salmon’s natural flavor. Stick to the recipe for balanced taste.
• Bold Ignoring Rest Time: Skipping the resting period after marinating leads to less flavorful fish. Allowing it to rest helps flavors meld.
• Bold Overcooking Salmon: Cooking salmon too long can dry it out. Monitor the cooking time closely for a moist, flaky texture.
• Bold Neglecting Grill Preparation: An unprepared grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always clean and oil the grill grates before cooking.
• Bold Improper Storage: Storing salmon improperly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

• Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Use medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and warm the salmon gently, turning it carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the perfect 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon.

Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other fish like trout or tilapia, but adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I ensure my salmon is fresh?

Look for bright color and a mild scent. Fresh salmon should not smell overly fishy.

What side dishes pair well with 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon?

Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I adjust the marinade ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to tweak ingredients like using lemon juice instead of soy sauce for a zesty twist.

Final Thoughts

This 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is not only simple but also deliciously versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or spices, making it suitable for any occasion. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort!