Traeger Grilled Salmon Recipe: Easy Garlic and Lemon!

Grilling salmon on a Traeger is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal. You can achieve a perfectly grilled, moist, and flavorful salmon every time.

To start, you’ll need fresh salmon and just a few essential ingredients. These include your preferred spices, olive oil, and perhaps a delicious glaze or rub.

Using the right temperature and time is key, and I’ve got just the tips to make your Traeger experience a success.

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or new to using a Traeger, this recipe is straightforward. Let’s get grilling and enjoy a tasty salmon dinner that’s sure to impress!

Key Takeaways

• Learn how to grill salmon with essential ingredients.
• Follow step-by-step cooking instructions for perfect results.
• Find answers to common questions about grilling salmon.

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Salmon

When I’m grilling salmon, I always make sure to gather the best ingredients for a delicious outcome. Let’s cover the essentials.

Fresh Salmon

Choosing the right type of salmon is key. I love using wild-caught salmon like sockeye, king salmon, or coho salmon. They’re full of flavor. Fresh salmon filets work great, but you can also use farm-raised salmon if that’s what you have on hand.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is essential for brushing on the salmon before grilling. It helps keep the fish moist and prevents sticking.

Seasonings

A simple mix of salt and black pepper is often enough, but I like to add more for extra flavor.

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika or smoked paprika
• Lemon pepper seasoning

Fresh Herbs

Adding fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of grilled salmon. My favorites include:

• Parsley
• Dill

Lemon

Lemon juice and zest bring a refreshing brightness to the salmon.

Butter

A mix of butter and herbs brushed on the salmon can make it extra tasty. Sometimes, I use ghee for a richer flavor.

Optional Spices

For those who like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can be wonderful. Sea salt or ground black pepper can also be good additions.

Putting all these together, you get a simple but flavorful grilled salmon that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re using fresh salmon from the market or a favorite seasoning blend, these essentials ensure a tasty result.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Grilling salmon on a Traeger is a rewarding and easy way to make a delicious, healthy meal. Let’s go through the necessary steps to ensure your salmon turns out perfect every time.

Preparing Your Traeger Grill

First, set up your Traeger pellet grill. I start by filling the hopper with my favorite wood pellets. I like to use alder or maple for a slightly sweet smoke flavor, but apple and cherry work well too.

Next, preheat the grill to 400°F. This makes the grill grates hot enough to cook the salmon skin-side down without sticking. While the grill is heating, I also make sure to clean the grates with a wire brush. A clean grill helps to achieve perfect grill marks and prevent sticking.

Seasoning the Salmon

While the grill heats up, I prepare the salmon. I pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and creates a better crust.

For seasoning, I often use a simple mix of sea salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If I want a bit more flavor, I add some lemon juice and herbs like parsley or basil. Sometimes, I also use a basting brush to apply a mix of olive oil and spices to the fillet. This keeps the salmon moist and adds extra flavor.

Grilling to Perfection

When everything is ready, I place the salmon on a baking sheet, skin-side down. Then, I transfer it to the preheated grill. For grilling salmon, maintaining steady grill temperature is crucial. I let it cook for about 7-8 minutes, making sure to close the lid.

I aim for an internal temperature of 140°F, checked with a meat thermometer for the best doneness. The USDA recommends this temperature to ensure the salmon is cooked but still juicy.

Finally, when the salmon flakes easily with a fork, it’s done. I remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender and moist fillet perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grilling salmon on a Traeger can be simple and delicious with the right tips. Here, I’ll answer some common questions to help you get the best results.

How long should I grill salmon on a Traeger at various temperatures?

Grill salmon at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. At 450°F, it takes around 10-12 minutes. If you’re using 500°F, it should only take about 8-10 minutes. Always check that the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145°F.

What is the best temperature to grill salmon on a Traeger?

I find that grilling salmon at 350°F gives it a nice balance between a tender inside and a crispy outside. This temperature cooks the fish evenly without drying it out.

Can you share some healthy grilled salmon recipes for a Traeger?

For a healthy recipe, you can marinate salmon with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. For another option, try using a blend of hot sauce, maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic recipe.

What’s the best way to grill salmon on a Traeger – with foil or without?

Grilling without foil gives a smokier flavor and crispier skin. Grilling with foil makes for easier cleanup and helps keep the fish moist. I prefer grilling without foil for that perfect texture.

How do I use mayonnaise when grilling salmon on a Traeger?

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the salmon before adding your spices. This helps keep the fish moist and can prevent it from sticking to the grill.

What’s the estimated time for smoking salmon on a pellet grill?

Smoking salmon at a lower temperature (around 225°F or 250°F) takes about 1-2 hours. This gives the salmon a smoky flavor while keeping it tender.

Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.