How Long Does It Take to Grill a 4 Oz Piece of Salmon?

Grilling salmon is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this flavorful fish. However, when it comes to grilling, timing is key. Knowing how long it takes to grill a 4 oz piece of salmon can ensure that you achieve the perfect balance of tender and moist flesh with a beautifully charred exterior.

The Basics of Grilling Salmon

Before we dive into the cooking times, let’s cover some essential tips for grilling salmon:

  • Choose the right cut: When grilling salmon, it’s best to use fillets with the skin on. The skin adds an extra layer of protection against drying out.
  • Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the salmon on the grates. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking.
  • Oil the grill grates: To prevent your salmon from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates before placing the fish on them.
  • Seasoning: Keep it simple by seasoning your salmon with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices.

Cooking Times for Grilled Salmon

The cooking time for a 4 oz piece of salmon depends on various factors such as thickness, desired doneness, and temperature. As a general guideline, follow these recommendations:

Skin-On Salmon Fillet:

  • Rare (125°F / 52°C): Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side.
  • Medium-Rare (130°F / 54°C): Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side.
  • Medium (140°F / 60°C): Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side.
  • Well-Done (155°F / 68°C): Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side.

Skinless Salmon Fillet:

  • Rare (125°F / 52°C): Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Medium-Rare (130°F / 54°C): Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side.
  • Medium (140°F / 60°C): Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side.
  • Well-Done (155°F / 68°C): Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side.

Note: These cooking times are approximate and can vary based on the thickness of the salmon fillet and the heat of your grill. It’s always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches the desired internal temperature.

Tips for Grilling Success

To achieve grilling perfection, consider these additional tips:

  • Maintain a clean grill: Regularly clean your grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
  • Avoid excessive flipping: Flip your salmon fillets only once during cooking to promote even browning and prevent them from falling apart.
  • Create grill marks: For those beautiful cross-hatch grill marks, rotate your salmon fillets by 45 degrees halfway through cooking on each side.
  • Rest before serving: Allow your grilled salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful final dish.

Now that you know the approximate grilling times for a 4 oz piece of salmon, you can confidently fire up your grill and create a delicious meal. Experiment with different seasonings and techniques to find your perfect grilled salmon recipe!

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Lindsay Collins