This grilled salmon is rich, buttery, and bright with fresh lime and herbs. It’s quick to prepare and delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The garlic lime butter creates a rich yet refreshing flavor balance.
Grilling gives the salmon a lightly smoky taste with a perfectly tender texture.
It’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.
The sauce doubles as both marinade and finishing drizzle.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh salmon filet provides a rich, flaky base that holds up well on the grill.
Unsalted butter creates a silky, flavorful sauce.
Garlic adds depth and aroma without overpowering the fish.
Lime juice brings brightness that balances the richness.
Fresh dill adds a light herbal finish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use skin-on salmon to help keep the fish intact while grilling.
Oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
Do not overcook; salmon continues to cook after removing from heat.
Keep the garlic smashed, not pressed, for a milder flavor.
How to Make Grilled Salmon Garlic Lime Butter
Step 1 – Make the butter sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add smashed garlic, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2 – Add flavor
Stir in chopped dill and lime juice, then remove from heat immediately.
Step 3 – Prepare the salmon
Arrange salmon skin-side-down and spoon 1/3 of the sauce over the top. Let it marinate while preheating the grill.
Step 4 – Preheat the grill
Heat grill to medium (350°F to 400°F) and oil the grates well.
Step 5 – Grill first side
Place salmon skin-side-up, cover, and grill for about 3 minutes without moving.
Step 6 – Flip and finish
Carefully flip, brush with another 1/3 of the sauce, cover, and cook for 2 more minutes until nearly done.
Step 7 – Serve
Transfer to a platter, drizzle remaining sauce, garnish with dill, and serve with lime wedges.
What to Serve Them With
Serve with steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
Pair with a light salad for a fresh and simple option.
Add roasted potatoes for a more filling dinner.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap dill for parsley or cilantro for a different herb profile.
Use lemon instead of lime for a more classic citrus flavor.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before grilling.
How do I know when salmon is done?
It should flake easily and reach about 145°F after resting.
Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, reheat gently before using.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s rich in protein and healthy fats.
Can I use other fish?
Yes, trout or cod work well with this sauce.
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
Use dried dill, but reduce the amount slightly.
Can I cook this on a grill pan?
Yes, it works well on a stovetop grill pan.
How long does it take to cook?
It usually takes about 10–15 minutes total.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
Final Thoughts
This grilled salmon is a perfect balance of richness and freshness. It’s an easy, reliable recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (8 Tbsp)
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 Tbsp lime juice (from 1 lime), plus lime wedges
- 2 Tbsp dill, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 lbs salmon filet, skin-on, cut into 6 portions
Instructions
- Melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, salt, and pepper; simmer 1 minute.
- Stir in dill and lime juice, then remove from heat.
- Spoon 1/3 sauce over salmon and let marinate.
- Preheat grill to 350–400°F and oil grates.
- Grill salmon skin-side-up for 3 minutes.
- Flip, brush with more sauce, and cook 2 minutes more.
- Drizzle remaining sauce, garnish, and serve with lime wedges.
