5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

This 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is a delightful dish that shines with flavor and simplicity. Perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even quick weeknight meals, this recipe brings together just five ingredients for a deliciously marinated salmon. The unique combination of soy sauce, dijon mustard, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the natural taste of the fish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and clean up, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients: With only five key components, you can whip up this dish without fuss.
• Quick Prep Time: Spend just 5 minutes getting everything ready.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinade infuses the salmon with rich flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for casual meals or special occasions alike.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is good for you too!

Tools and Preparation

To make this 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect charred flavor and texture to your salmon.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your marinade ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps emulsify the marinade, ensuring all flavors blend well together.

Ingredients

This grilled salmon is one of the best salmon recipes I’ve tried and it only takes FIVE ingredients. Bonus: there’s minimal prep and minimal clean up.

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

Lay salmon skin side down on a cutting board and cut salmon crosswise into six equal portions. Transfer to a 13 by 9-inch baking dish skin side down.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until the mixture is emulsified (fully comes together).

Step 3: Marinate

Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the marinade mixture. Spoon and spread the remaining mixture over the salmon. Let rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat Grill

Meanwhile, preheat your grill over medium-high heat to about 400 degrees F. Clean grill grates and brush them with oil.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon

Place salmon on the grill skin side down and cook for about four minutes. Carefully flip it over (I sort of roll it) and continue cooking for another four minutes or until desired doneness.

Step 6: Finish Up

Remove skin from salmon then plate it up. Brush remaining two tablespoons of marinade mixture over the top of the salmon.

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy warm garnished with parsley if desired.

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Serving your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon can elevate the meal from simple to extraordinary. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and guests.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use mixed greens or kale as a base for the salmon. This adds freshness and a colorful presentation.

With Lemon Wedges

• Serving lemon wedges alongside enhances flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon complements the marinade beautifully.

Accompanied by Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or dill for an appealing look. Fresh herbs add brightness that pairs well with salmon.

Paired with Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds heartiness to the meal and absorbs any extra marinade.

How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

To achieve the best results when making your grilled salmon, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Salmon: Select fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible. This ensures great flavor and texture.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature for better flavor absorption.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the salmon on it. A preheated grill helps prevent sticking.
• Use a Fish Spatula: A fish spatula makes flipping easier without breaking the salmon apart.
• Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked salmon can become dry. Aim for about 8 minutes total if you prefer medium doneness.

Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Complementing your grilled salmon with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes add comfort and pair well with fish flavors.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a crunchy contrast to the tender salmon.
3. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a Mediterranean twist.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the salmon.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements grilled flavors perfectly, especially during summer months.
6. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light and absorbs flavors well from any sauce used.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to steer clear of:

• Using low-quality salmon – Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen or farmed varieties that may not taste as good.
• Skipping the marinating time – Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances its flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for a delicious result.
• Not preheating the grill – Make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the salmon on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Overcooking the salmon – Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time, and check for doneness early to ensure a moist outcome.
• Ignoring skin-on cooking – Cooking with the skin on helps keep the salmon moist and adds flavor. Don’t remove it too soon; let it do its job.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped salmon for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for about 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed, flipping gently to avoid breakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate the salmon for at least 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to penetrate.

Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Yes! This marinade works well with trout or even chicken if you’re looking for alternatives.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is great for meal prep. Store leftovers properly, and enjoy them throughout the week.

What sides pair well with grilled salmon?

Consider serving with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

The 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is not just simple but also incredibly flavorful. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different herbs or spices according to your taste. Enjoy this dish warm or as leftovers—either way, it promises satisfaction every time!