Grilled salmon is one of those dinners that feels impressive without being complicated.
This version is brushed with a garlic lime butter that keeps the fish juicy, flavorful, and bright.
It’s quick enough for a weeknight, but delicious enough for a special meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salmon stays tender and juicy thanks to the buttery marinade and quick grilling time.
Garlic, lime, and dill create a fresh, bold flavor that pairs beautifully with rich salmon.
The recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together fast.
It’s easy to serve for family dinners, outdoor meals, or casual entertaining.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Salmon fillet is the star here, offering a rich texture that holds up well on the grill.
Unsalted butter creates a flavorful base and helps keep the fish moist.
Smashed garlic adds gentle depth without overpowering the salmon.
Fresh lime juice brings brightness that balances the richness of the butter.
Dill adds a clean, herby finish that works perfectly with seafood.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Oil the grill grates well so the salmon releases more easily.
Keep the salmon skin-on to help protect the fillet while grilling.
Use a spatula to loosen the fish before flipping for cleaner portions.
Do not overcook the salmon; it will continue cooking slightly after it comes off the grill.
How to Make Grilled Salmon Garlic Lime Butter
Step 1 – Make the butter sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add smashed garlic, salt, and black pepper, then simmer briefly until fragrant. Stir in dill and lime juice, then remove from the heat.
Step 2 – Coat the salmon
Arrange the salmon portions skin-side-down on a platter. Spoon about one-third of the butter sauce over the top and brush evenly.
Step 3 – Preheat the grill
Heat the grill to medium, about 350°F to 400°F. Oil the hot grates well before adding the fish.
Step 4 – Grill the first side
Place the salmon on the grill skin-side-up. Cover and cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes.
Step 5 – Flip and finish cooking
Carefully flip the salmon, brush with another third of the butter sauce, and cover again. Grill about 2 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Step 6 – Finish and serve
Transfer the salmon to a platter and drizzle with the remaining butter sauce. Garnish with more dill and serve with lime wedges.
What to Serve Them With
Serve this salmon with grilled vegetables or roasted asparagus for an easy side.
It also pairs well with rice, herbed potatoes, or a light cucumber salad.
Warm crusty bread is great for soaking up any extra garlic lime butter.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap dill with parsley or cilantro for a different fresh herb flavor.
Use lemon juice instead of lime for a slightly different citrus profile.
You can grill the salmon as one large fillet instead of cutting it into portions first.
Add a small pinch of chili flakes to the butter sauce for gentle heat.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or low oven so the fish does not dry out.
Leftover salmon is also excellent flaked into salads, rice bowls, or wraps.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without an outdoor grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or broil the salmon in the oven instead.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily and reach about 140°F before resting, which rises to around 145°F off the grill.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding the butter sauce.
Do I need to remove the skin?
No, the skin helps hold the fillet together and makes grilling easier.
Can I prepare the butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, make it in advance and gently rewarm it before using.
What kind of salmon works best?
Any firm salmon fillet works well, including Atlantic or wild salmon.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, though fresh dill gives the best flavor and brightness.
What should I do if the butter sauce firms up?
Warm it briefly on the stovetop until melted again.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, the cooked salmon keeps well for short-term meals and leftovers.
What sides go best with this dish?
Rice, potatoes, grilled vegetables, and fresh salads all pair very well.
Final Thoughts
This grilled salmon with garlic lime butter is fresh, rich, and incredibly easy to make. The buttery herb sauce gives every bite bold flavor while keeping the fish moist and tender. It’s a simple dinner that feels special every time.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (8 Tbsp)
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed (not pressed)
- 2 Tbsp lime juice (from 1 lime), plus lime wedges to serve
- 2 Tbsp dill, chopped, plus more to garnish
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 lbs salmon filet, skin-on, cut into 6 portions
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add smashed garlic, salt, and black pepper. Simmer 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped dill and lime juice, then remove from heat.
- Arrange salmon skin-side-down on a platter. Spoon one-third of the butter sauce over the top and brush evenly.
- Preheat grill to medium heat, about 350°F to 400°F. Oil the hot grates.
- Place salmon on the grill skin-side-up. Cover and grill about 3 minutes.
- Carefully flip, brush with another third of the butter sauce, cover, and grill about 2 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- Transfer to a platter and drizzle with the remaining sauce. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with lime wedges.
