why make this recipe
Herb Grilled Salmon is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to make at home. This recipe is a copycat of the popular Olive Garden version, bringing that restaurant taste right to your dinner table. Fresh herbs and buttery goodness elevate the salmon, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this dish will impress everyone.
how to make Herb Grilled Salmon
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter or vegan butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic (minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 4 (4 ounce) salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Directions
- In a small bowl, stir together the softened butter with parsley, kosher salt, lemon zest, and garlic.
- Scoop the herb butter onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll it into a log about 2 inches in diameter and twist the ends to close. Chill overnight, or until firm. If you’re short on time, place it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Brush each piece of salmon with avocado oil and sprinkle with salt and Italian seasoning.
- Heat a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat and brush it with the same oil.
- Once hot and rippling, place the salmon, flesh and seasoning-side down on the pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Flip the salmon over, reduce heat to medium, and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
- Slice the prepared herb compound butter into thick rings. Place one or two on top of each piece of salmon (it’s okay to have extra butter).
- Continue to cook for 1-2 more minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium rare and the salmon flakes easily.
- Serve the salmon right away with fresh chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Add more slices of extra herb butter if available. Leftover butter can be wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months.
how to serve Herb Grilled Salmon
This dish is best served right after cooking. You can pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some rice. A light squeeze of lemon on top adds a bright flavor that balances the richness of the salmon and herb butter.
how to store Herb Grilled Salmon
If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. For any remaining herb butter, wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer. This will keep it good for up to 3 months.
tips to make Herb Grilled Salmon
- Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used, but fresh ones will elevate the dish.
- Don’t overcook the salmon. It should be slightly pink in the middle for the best taste and texture.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add more garlic to the butter mixture.
variation
You can swap out the salmon for other types of fish like trout or swordfish. The herb butter works well with any firm fish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw the salmon completely before cooking for best results.
What if I don’t have avocado oil?
Olive oil can be used in place of avocado oil without any issues.
Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the herb butter days in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just let it come to room temperature before using.
Herb Grilled Salmon
Ingredients
Herb Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter or vegan butter (softened) Use softened butter for easy mixing.
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped parsley Fresh herbs enhance the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest Adds brightness to the butter.
- 1 clove garlic (minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
Salmon Fillets
- 4 pieces salmon fillets (4 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil Use for brushing the salmon.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning the salmon.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Instructions
Prepare Herb Butter
- In a small bowl, stir together the softened butter with parsley, kosher salt, lemon zest, and garlic.
- Scoop the herb butter onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap, roll it into a log about 2 inches in diameter, and twist the ends to close.
- Chill overnight, or until firm. If short on time, place it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to set.
Cook Salmon
- Brush each piece of salmon with avocado oil and sprinkle with salt and Italian seasoning.
- Heat a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat and brush it with the same oil.
- Once hot and rippling, place the salmon, flesh and seasoning-side down on the pan, and sear for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Flip the salmon over, reduce heat to medium, and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
- Slice the prepared herb compound butter into thick rings and place one or two on top of each piece of salmon.
- Continue to cook for 1-2 more minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium rare and the salmon flakes easily.
- Serve the salmon right away with fresh chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon.