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Perfect Grilled Salmon Skewers

grilled salmon skewers - featured image

Simple, fresh salmon chunks threaded onto skewers and grilled with a citrus-herb marinade for a juicy, smoky summer BBQ dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1.5-inch chunks
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut the salmon into evenly sized 1.5-inch chunks. Slice the bell pepper and red onion into similar-sized pieces. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the salmon chunks to the marinade and gently toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Alternate threading salmon, bell pepper, and onion pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between chunks.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs until salmon is opaque and flakes easily but remains moist.
  7. Remove from grill and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon or alongside a fresh salad.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Marinate salmon for no longer than 20 minutes to avoid ‘cooking’ the fish with acid. Oil grill grates well and brush salmon lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Turn skewers gently and only once for best sear and to keep salmon intact. Watch for flare-ups and move skewers as needed. Let skewers rest a few minutes after grilling to redistribute juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon skewers, summer BBQ, easy salmon recipe, citrus herb marinade, healthy grilling, seafood skewers