If you are craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and satisfies with every tender bite, then the Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This recipe transforms simple salmon into a vibrant, juicy delight, enhanced by the sharpness of Dijon mustard, the brightness of fresh lemon, and the subtle kick of garlic. Perfectly charred on the grill, these skewers are as impressive for weeknight dinners as they are for weekend gatherings. Let’s dive into the delicious details of crafting this exquisite dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is chosen to build layers of flavor while keeping the preparation delightfully simple. The quality of each component plays a crucial role in balancing taste, texture, and color—making your grilled salmon not only delicious but visually appealing.
- 1.5 lbs salmon fillets: Cut into 1-inch squares, the star of the dish offering rich, buttery flavor and a flaky texture.
- 2 large lemons: Thinly sliced to add a fresh, zesty pop and a decorative touch interspersed with the salmon.
- 16 10-inch bamboo skewers: Soaked beforehand to prevent burning and to hold everything securely for even grilling.
- 2 Tbsp parsley: Freshly chopped for a vibrant green note and subtle herbal brightness.
- 2 large or 3 small garlic cloves: Pressed to infuse the marinade with a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard: Provides tangy complexity and a slight kick, ideally using a quality brand like Grey Poupon.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- 2 Tbsp light olive oil: Chosen for its higher smoke point, helping the salmon sear beautifully without burning.
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: From half a large lemon or one small lemon, adding fresh acidity that balances the richness.
How to Make Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers and Grill
Start by soaking your bamboo skewers in water for at least one hour before grilling — this simple step prevents them from catching fire and ensures they stay sturdy. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for about 375˚F, the perfect temperature to cook the salmon thoroughly while giving it that gorgeous char.
Step 2: Mix the Flavor-Packed Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine your freshly chopped parsley, pressed garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir these ingredients together to create a vibrant marinade that will infuse the salmon with a harmonious blend of tangy, herby, and garlicky notes. This marinade is the secret to achieving those irresistible flavors in your Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe.
Step 3: Skewer the Salmon and Lemon Slices
Next, it’s time to assemble your skewers. The technique is key here: double skewer each portion of salmon along with folded lemon slices. This approach not only looks charming but also makes turning the skewers on the grill easier, helping the fish cook evenly. Be generous with the marinade, brushing both sides of the skewers so every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Oil your grill grates lightly to prevent sticking and then place the skewers carefully onto the hot BBQ. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll notice the salmon becoming opaque and flaky — that’s when you know it’s ready. The lemon slices will caramelize slightly, adding a sweet citrus note that complements the savory salmon beautifully.
How to Serve Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges can brighten up the presentation and add a fresh burst of flavor. For an extra touch of elegance, a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil over the finished skewers enhances the dish’s vibrant appeal and elevates its taste even more.
Side Dishes
These salmon skewers pair wonderfully with a simple mixed greens salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a well-rounded meal. For something heartier, consider fluffy couscous or garlic mashed potatoes; their creamy textures make a perfect foil for the grilled, slightly crisp salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the skewers on a rustic wooden board with a handful of lemon slices scattered around. You can also lay them over a bed of wild rice or quinoa, or thread the skewers into a colorful, composed platter of Mediterranean-style sides. The visual appeal of the grilled salmon skewers with garlic and Dijon recipe is just as rewarding as the taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal. Consume within 2 days to enjoy maximum freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing cooked salmon skewers is possible, but it’s best done with care. Wrap the cooled skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen properly, they can last up to 2 months, but be mindful that texture might slightly soften upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat your Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe, gently warm them in a preheated oven at 250˚F until just heated through. This slow reheating preserves the salmon’s tenderness and prevents it from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the salmon rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use wooden skewers other than bamboo?
Yes, you can use wooden skewers, but make sure to soak them thoroughly in water before grilling to prevent burning. Bamboo is popular due to its sturdiness and availability, but alternative wooden skewers work just as well.
Is it necessary to double skewer the salmon?
While not mandatory, double skewering is highly recommended because it makes turning the salmon on the grill much easier and prevents the fish from twisting or falling apart. It’s a simple trick that ensures even cooking.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Frozen salmon can be used if thawed completely in the refrigerator before preparing. Fresh or thawed salmon is ideal to maintain texture and flavor in the Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook these skewers indoors?
Absolutely! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or use a grill pan on the stovetop. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and adjust cooking times as needed to achieve the same lovely sear and doneness.
Can I add other vegetables to the skewers?
Definitely. Cherry tomatoes, bell pepper chunks, or zucchini slices are excellent additions. Just be sure to cut them into pieces that will cook at the same rate as the salmon or par-cook them slightly before skewering.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe that makes it an absolute joy to prepare and share. From the vivid flavors to the simple yet elegant presentation, it’s a dish that brightens any meal and any occasion. I encourage you to fire up your grill and bring these skewers to life—they might just become your new go-to for delicious, healthy, and beautiful dinners.
Print
Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (8 skewers)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon create a flavorful and light meal featuring tender salmon marinated in a zesty garlic-Dijon blend, paired with fresh lemon slices for a bright finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, these skewers grill up quickly and are ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch squares
- 2 large lemons, thinly sliced
- 16 10-inch bamboo skewers
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, pressed
- 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard (we used Grey Poupon)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp light olive oil (not extra virgin)
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1/2 large lemon or 1 small lemon)
Instructions
- Prep the skewers and grill: Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 1 hour to prevent them from burning. Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375ËšF, to ensure even cooking.
- Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, pressed garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, salt, ground black pepper, light olive oil, and fresh lemon juice. Stir thoroughly to mix all the marinade flavors together.
- Assemble the skewers: Double skewer the salmon pieces and fold lemon slices in half, threading them intermittently onto the two skewers for stability. This double skewering technique helps when turning the skewers later on the grill. Brush both sides of the salmon and lemon skewers generously with the marinade.
- Grill the skewers: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers carefully onto the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and opaque throughout.
Notes
- Double skewering the salmon and lemon slices helps keep the skewers stable and easy to turn on the grill.
- Use light olive oil rather than extra virgin for grilling because it has a higher smoke point, preventing burning.
- Soaking bamboo skewers is essential to avoid catching fire during grilling.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon pieces and the exact grill temperature.
- Serve immediately with a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
