Fresh Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon Recipe with Easy Zucchini Ribbons
A quick and easy grilled salmon recipe infused with fresh lemon and herbs, paired with crisp zucchini ribbons for a light and satisfying meal perfect for spring and summer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 ounces each
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, dill, thyme), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 medium zucchinis, peeled into ribbons using a vegetable peeler
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir in honey or maple syrup if using.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them, coating each piece well. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes.
- While salmon marinates, peel zucchinis into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler. Place ribbons in a bowl, season lightly with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and toss gently to coat. Set aside.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
- Grill salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes without moving to get grill marks. Flip carefully and grill the other side for 3-4 minutes until opaque and flaky.
- Transfer salmon to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate salmon with zucchini ribbons arranged beside or underneath. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or lemon zest if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not marinate salmon longer than 20 minutes to avoid ‘cooking’ the fish in lemon juice. Let salmon come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking. Use a well-oiled grill grate to prevent sticking. Zucchini ribbons are best served fresh and raw but can be lightly sautéed if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
Keywords: grilled salmon, lemon herb salmon, zucchini ribbons, healthy dinner, quick salmon recipe, summer grilling, easy weeknight meal