Grilled Lemon Salmon Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These grilled lemon salmon skewers are quick, healthy, and packed with bright, tangy flavor. The fresh lemon and garlic marinade enhances the natural taste of the salmon, making each bite burst with freshness. The skewers make for an easy, fun, and visually appealing presentation that’s perfect for serving at any gathering. Plus, grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the citrusy marinade. It’s a simple, light, and refreshing dish that will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 – 2 lbs boneless/skinless salmon (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2+ lemons (sliced, amount depends on the size of the lemons and how thick the slices are)
• Juice from 1/2 of a lemon
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp lemon pepper
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for about 15 minutes)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the lemon juice from half of the lemon, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and lemon pepper. Stir to mix everything together.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon pieces in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon and gently toss to coat. Let it marinate in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Prepare the Skewers: While the salmon is marinating, soak your wooden skewers in water for about 15 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated salmon pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating with lemon slices. You can use 4-6 pieces of salmon per skewer, depending on the size.
5. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Be sure to watch carefully, as salmon cooks quickly on the grill.
6. Serve: Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve hot with additional lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes (including marinating time)

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can alternate the salmon pieces with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
• Herb Twist: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to season the skewers before grilling.
• Citrus Variations: Try adding orange or lime slices to the skewers for a different citrus flavor.

Storage/Reheating

If you have leftover grilled lemon salmon skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skin-on salmon, but be sure to remove the skin before marinating and skewering the salmon. The skin can be tough and may not cook as well on the grill.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should be opaque throughout and still moist inside.

Can I make this recipe without skewers?

Yes, if you don’t have skewers, you can grill the salmon fillets directly on the grill. Just be sure to brush the grill with oil to prevent sticking, and cook the fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it to marinate the salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or thawed salmon for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen salmon, ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

What other herbs can I use in the marinade?

In addition to lemon pepper, you can add herbs like fresh thyme, oregano, or dill to enhance the flavor of the marinade.

Can I grill these skewers on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side.

Can I serve these skewers with a side dish?

Yes, grilled salmon skewers pair perfectly with sides like rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I prepare the skewers in advance?

You can assemble the skewers ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to marinate even more.

Can I cook these skewers in the oven?

If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.

Conclusion

Grilled lemon salmon skewers are a vibrant and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and olive oil infuses the salmon with bright and tangy flavors, while grilling adds a delicious smoky char. Whether served on their own or with a side of your favorite vegetables or rice, these skewers are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this grilled dish next time you’re craving a light and flavorful meal!

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