Short Description

A simple yet elegant dish featuring four 6-ounce salmon fillets marinated in olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then grilled to tender perfection. Garnished with lemon slices and fresh parsley.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright lemon-garlic flavor paired with savory oregano
Moist, flaky salmon that’s quick to prepare
Healthy and satisfying—packed with protein and omega-3s
Perfect for a casual weeknight or dinner guests

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon slices, for garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Marinate the Salmon
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (around 350–500°F). Make sure the grill grate is clean and lightly oiled to prevent the fish from sticking.
Grill the Salmon
Remove the salmon from the marinade and lightly brush the skin side with oil. Place fillets on the grill skin-side down. Grill for about 4–5 minutes without moving until the skin crisps and the fish releases easily. Flip and grill another 2–3 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 125–130°F for medium, or up to 140°F for more well done.
Rest and Serve
Transfer the salmon to a platter and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Then garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings And Timing

Serves: 4 (one fillet per person)
Prep Time: ~5–10 minutes
Marinade Time: 15 minutes to 1 hour
Grill Time: ~6–8 minutes per fillet depending on thickness
Resting Time: ~5 minutes

Variations

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the marinade for extra citrus brightness
Swap dried oregano for fresh herbs like dill or parsley
Stir in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup into the marinade for a sweeter twist
Grill on a cedar plank for a smoky, wood-flavored version

Storage/Reheating

To Store: Refrigerate leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days
To Reheat From Refrigerated: Gently warm in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 275°F for 10–15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches around 125–130°F
From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat using the methods above

FAQs

What Type Of Salmon Is Best For Grilling?

Skin-on fillets are best as the skin helps hold the fish together and prevents it from drying out.

Can I Use Frozen Salmon?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and grilling.

What If I Don’t Have Dried Oregano?

You can substitute with fresh herbs like chopped dill, parsley, or thyme.

How Do I Know When Salmon Is Cooked?

It turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Use a thermometer—125–130°F for medium, 140°F for well done.

Can I Flip The Salmon More Than Once?

It’s best to flip only once to avoid breaking the fillet. Flip when it naturally releases from the grill.

Is It Okay To Marinate Longer Than One Hour?

No, acidic marinades can break down the texture of fish. Do not exceed 1 hour.

Should I Cook Skin-Side Down First?

Yes, always start with the skin side down to help the fillet stay intact and crisp up.

Can I Grill Without Skin Using Foil?

Yes, grilling in foil is a good option for skinless fillets and prevents sticking.

How Long Should I Rest Salmon After Grilling?

Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Can I Grill Thicker Or Thinner Fillets?

Yes, adjust the grill time accordingly. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two; thinner fillets will cook faster.

Conclusion

This lemon grilled salmon recipe is the perfect balance of zesty citrus, savory herbs, and tender, flaky fish. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a reliable go-to for weeknights and gatherings alike. With proper marinating, grilling, and reheating tips, you can enjoy this fresh and flavorful dish any time.