How Long Do You Cook Salmon on the Grill and at What Temperature?

Are you planning to grill salmon for your next meal but not sure how long it takes or what temperature to cook it at? Don’t worry, in this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking salmon on the grill with the perfect time and temperature.

How to Prepare Salmon for Grilling

Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s talk about how to prepare salmon for grilling. First, make sure that your salmon is fresh and has been properly cleaned.

Rinse it under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Then, season it with salt, black pepper, and any other herbs or spices that you prefer.

If you want to add more flavor to your salmon, you can marinate it in the fridge for a few hours before grilling. Some popular marinade options include lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and honey.

Cooking Salmon on the Grill

Now that your salmon is ready to go, let’s get started on grilling it.

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F – 400°F). This will ensure that your salmon cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the grates.

Step 2: Oil Your Grill Grates

Use a brush or a paper towel dipped in oil to coat your grill grates. This will prevent your salmon from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Place Salmon on Grill

Place your seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down on the oiled grill grates. You can also place them on a piece of foil or cedar plank if you prefer.

Step 4: Cook Salmon

Cook your salmon for about 4-6 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets.

If you’re using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the salmon to check the temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can check for doneness by gently pressing down on the flesh with a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s done.

Step 5: Remove from Grill

Once your salmon is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make your salmon even more flavorful.

  • Grill temperature: Medium-high heat (around 375°F – 400°F)
  • Cooking time: About 4-6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 145°F

Conclusion

Grilling salmon is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this healthy fish. With these simple steps, you can cook perfect salmon every time.

Remember to preheat your grill, oil your grates, and cook your salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Happy grilling!

Photo of author

Daniel Bennet