Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter is a delightful dish that elevates your dining experience at home. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe features tender salmon topped with a rich mustard-herb compound butter. The unique combination of flavors not only enhances the fish but also brings a fresh and vibrant twist to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavor Packed: The mustard-herb butter adds a burst of flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Versatile Protein: You can easily swap salmon for other fish or even chicken, making it adaptable to your preferences.
- Healthy Option: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Impressive Presentation: Grilled salmon looks stunning on the plate, perfect for impressing guests or family.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Grill paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that smoky flavor we love in grilled dishes.
- Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients efficiently. It’s crucial for preparing the compound butter.
Ingredients
For the Mustard-Herb Butter
- 3 TBSP dijon mustard
- 1 TBSP finely chopped chives
- 1/2 TBSP finely chopped tarragon
- 1 TBSP finely chopped basil
- 1/2 stick of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Salmon
- 1 piece of salmon (or other fish or protein)
- Fish-friendly seasoning of your choice
- Grill paper
How to Make Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
Step 1: Prepare the Compound Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, dijon mustard, and chopped herbs. Mix until well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for cooking.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon on grill paper. Sprinkle your fish-friendly seasoning generously over the salmon.
Step 4: Grill the Salmon
Carefully place the seasoned salmon on the preheated grill. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes without moving it.
Step 5: Add the Herb Butter
After 10 minutes, use a spoon to place dollops of the mustard-herb butter over the salmon. Return it to the grill for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 6: Check Temperature and Serve
For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C). Once done, remove from heat and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side.
How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
Serving grilled salmon with mustard-herb butter can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: Toss fresh greens like arugula and spinach for a light accompaniment.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar adds a creamy texture that complements the fish.
Add Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilled zucchini and bell peppers bring vibrant colors and flavors to your plate.
- Asparagus: This seasonal vegetable pairs beautifully with salmon, adding a slight crunch.
Serve with Rice or Quinoa
- Lemon Herb Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with lemon zest enhances the dish’s freshness.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a healthy, nutty side.
Top with Extra Sauce
- Additional Mustard-Herb Butter: Just a dollop of extra butter on top keeps the dish rich and flavorful.
- Lemon Dill Sauce: A lemon dill sauce brings brightness and balances the richness of the salmon.
Enjoy with Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: Serve slices of warm sourdough to soak up any leftover butter.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a delightful crunch alongside your meal.
How to Perfect Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
To ensure your grilled salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and high-quality salmon for the best flavor.
- Preheat Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is at 375°F before cooking for even cooking results.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooking can dry out the salmon.
- Check Internal Temperature: Aim for 130°F internal temperature for perfectly cooked salmon that remains moist.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
Pairing side dishes with your grilled salmon enhances the meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the fish beautifully.
- Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a summer vibe and pairs well with grilled flavors.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the salmon.
- Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with vegetables is easy to prepare and refreshing.
- Grilled Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully on the grill, offering a sweet contrast to the fish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking grilled salmon can be easy, but many make simple mistakes that affect the outcome. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.
- Using cold butter: Always ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing with mustard and herbs. This helps the flavors meld together better.
- Not preheating the grill: A preheated grill is essential for getting those beautiful grill marks and ensuring even cooking. Always preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes.
- Overcooking the salmon: Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for a moist result.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t skip the seasoning on your fish! Properly season both sides of the salmon for maximum flavor.
- Ignoring resting time: Letting your grilled salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and texture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked salmon in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Grilled salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Cook the salmon for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different herbs in the mustard-herb butter?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or parsley based on your taste preference.
How do I know when the grilled salmon is done?
The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 130°F. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
Can I substitute chicken instead of salmon?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken breasts or other firm fish varieties if you prefer something different.
What dishes pair well with Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter?
Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How long does grilled salmon last in the fridge?
Cooked grilled salmon can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. It’s perfect for summer BBQs or quick weeknight dinners. You can customize this dish by using different proteins or herbs according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
Description
Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter is a quick and elegant dish that transforms any meal into a gourmet experience. Perfect for summer barbecues or busy weeknights, this recipe features tender salmon fillets topped with a zesty mustard-herb butter that elevates the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 piece of salmon (or other fish)
- 3 TBSP dijon mustard
- 1/2 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
- Chopped chives, tarragon, and basil
- Fish-friendly seasoning of your choice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, dijon mustard, chives, tarragon, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the salmon on grill paper and season generously.
- Grill for about 10 minutes without moving the salmon.
- Add dollops of mustard-herb butter on top and grill for an additional 10 minutes.
- Check for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C) before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
