Grilled Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Butter

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush both sides lightly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

   Tip: Dry salmon prevents sticking and promotes better browning.

2. 2

   Season each fillet generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Create small pockets in the top of each fillet and stuff with minced garlic and fresh thyme.

   Tip: Don't skip seasoning the fish generously - this enhances the natural salmon flavor.

3. 3

   Oil your grill grates thoroughly with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking.

   Tip: Use a folded paper towel dipped in oil to coat the grates evenly.

4. 4

   Place salmon fillets skin-side up on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.

   Tip: Resist the urge to flip - patience creates the best crust.

5. 5

   Carefully flip each fillet and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

   Tip: The internal temperature should reach 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.

6. 6

   While the salmon finishes cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the remaining minced garlic and lemon juice, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

   Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the garlic from burning and turning bitter.

7. 7

   Transfer the grilled salmon to serving plates. Drizzle the garlic-lemon butter sauce over each fillet and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

   Tip: Serve immediately while the salmon is still warm for the best flavor.