Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter

Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter is a delightful dish that elevates any meal. Perfect for summer BBQs, family dinners, or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe features tender salmon paired with a flavorful mustard-herb butter. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen. The unique combination of mustard and fresh herbs makes this dish truly stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This grilled salmon recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Twist: The mustard-herb butter adds a rich and zesty flavor that enhances the natural taste of the salmon.
• Versatile Protein: You can easily swap out salmon for other fish or even chicken, catering to your preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this dish is both nutritious and delicious, perfect for health-conscious eaters.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish with fresh lemon for a visually stunning plate that impresses guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Gather your equipment before starting to ensure everything is at your fingertips.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill paper
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill provides that smoky flavor that makes grilled salmon irresistible.
• Grill Paper: Using grill paper prevents sticking and allows for easy clean-up while cooking delicate fish.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for blending the compound butter ingredients thoroughly.

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 Mustard-Herb Butter

1. In a bowl, combine the softened butter, dijon mustard, chives, tarragon, and basil.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are blended.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon

1. Place the piece of salmon on a sheet of grill paper.
2. Season the salmon with your choice of fish-friendly seasoning.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

1. Place the prepared salmon on the preheated grill.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Compound Butter

1. After 10 minutes of cooking, add spoonfuls of the mustard-herb butter on top of the salmon.
2. Return it to the grill for another 10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C).

Step 6: Serve

1. Once cooked through, remove from the grill and serve hot with fresh lemon slices.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter!

How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter

Serving grilled salmon with mustard-herb butter is not only delicious but also visually appealing. You can enhance your dining experience by pairing it with the right accompaniments. Here are some delightful suggestions for serving this fresh and flavorful dish.

Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Serve lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Squeezing fresh lemon over the salmon enhances its flavor and adds brightness.

Green Salad

• A light, crisp green salad complements the richness of the salmon. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing.

Quinoa Salad

• A protein-packed quinoa salad pairs nicely with grilled salmon. Toss quinoa with cucumber, bell peppers, and a splash of lemon juice for freshness.

Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a colorful and healthy side dish. Their smoky flavor perfectly matches the grilled salmon.

Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf adds a comforting touch to your meal. You can mix in herbs or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Garlic Bread

• Crunchy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover mustard-herb butter on your plate.

Save it!

How to Perfect Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter

Perfecting your grilled salmon requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these strategies to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Preheat your grill: Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking. This helps create those beautiful grill marks while sealing in moisture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality butter elevate the dish. Opting for fresh chives, tarragon, and basil will enhance flavor significantly.

• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Leave enough space between salmon pieces to allow heat circulation. This ensures that each fillet cooks evenly.

• Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that your salmon reaches about 130°F for perfect doneness without drying out.

• Let it rest: After grilling, let your salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute for a moist bite.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to try different fish-friendly seasonings based on your taste preference or what you have available in your pantry.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal further when serving grilled salmon with mustard-herb butter. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus lightly steamed retains its crunch and complements the buttery salmon.

2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary provide a hearty side that balances well with the fish.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of grilled salmon.

4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a touch of summer sweetness that enhances any BBQ dish beautifully.

5. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad made with diced veggies adds texture and pairs well with the herb butter.

6. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Packed with protein, this salad has cucumbers, tomatoes, herbs, and feta cheese that brighten up your plate.

7. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make a great bed for your salmon.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Creamy baked sweet potatoes offer a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and the dish’s flavor.

• Using cold butter – Always use room temperature butter for your herb compound. Cold butter won’t blend well with the mustard and herbs.
• Overcooking the salmon – Keep an eye on the cooking time. Salmon should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of about 130°F for the best texture.
• Not seasoning well – Seasoning is key. Don’t skip adding salt and pepper to both the salmon and the compound butter to elevate the flavors.
• Skipping grill paper – Grill paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Always use it when grilling fish for a perfect result.
• Ignoring resting time – Letting salmon rest for a few minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist fillet.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Frozen salmon will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil, heating for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe container, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter, then warm the salmon gently for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter?

Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter is a flavorful dish featuring salmon fillets grilled to perfection and topped with a rich herb-infused butter.

How long does it take to cook grilled salmon?

Typically, grilling salmon takes about 20 minutes total: 10 minutes without butter and another 10 minutes after adding the mustard-herb mixture.

Can I use other types of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any firm white fish or even chicken breast if you prefer alternatives.

What sides pair well with grilled salmon?

Consider serving grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice as excellent side dishes that complement grilled salmon perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Salmon with Mustard-Herb Butter is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize this recipe by using different herbs or proteins according to your preference. Try it out at your next summer BBQ or quick dinner!