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Salmon Marinade Recipe

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4.3 from 68 reviews

This flavorful salmon marinade recipe infuses fresh salmon fillets with a savory blend of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for grilling or baking, the marinade enhances the natural taste of the fish, creating a tender and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 2 pounds salmon fillet (either a whole fillet or cut into 6-oz fillets)

Marinade

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce (regular or reduced sodium)
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon mild honey
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (or less to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (from about 1 medium lemon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep fish: Pat the salmon fillet dry using paper towels. Run your fingers over the flesh to feel for any remaining bones and remove them carefully to ensure a pleasant eating experience.
  2. Make marinade: In a medium measuring jug, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, brown sugar (if using), chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
  3. Marinate fish: Place the salmon fillet or individual pieces into a large zip-top plastic bag (at least 3-quart size). Pour the marinade over the salmon, then remove excess air from the bag and seal it tightly. Lay the bag flat in a shallow dish and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish. For longer marinating, up to 4-6 hours is acceptable but not recommended for optimal texture.
  4. Cook salmon: When ready to cook, remove the salmon from the marinade and discard the bag and any leftover marinade. Choose your preferred cooking method based on available equipment and guidance below.
  5. Grill: Preheat your grill to 400-450°F and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes per inch of thickness; for example, a 2-inch thick fillet will take about 20 minutes. Individual 6-oz fillets usually take 8-10 minutes. The salmon is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Let the salmon rest on a plate for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
  6. Oven bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the salmon in an oiled, shallow baking dish. Bake for 15-22 minutes depending on thickness, with individual fillets generally baking for 12-15 minutes. The fish is ready when opaque and flakes easily. Allow salmon to rest for 5 minutes on a plate before serving.

Notes

  • If fresh garlic is unavailable, substitute ½ to 1 teaspoon of dried garlic powder to maintain flavor.
  • For a different flavor profile, replace lemon juice and zest with orange juice and orange zest. Reduce honey and sugar by half when using orange due to its natural sweetness.
  • Adding freshly minced ginger and red pepper flakes to the marinade provides a spicy kick but should be avoided if serving children or anyone sensitive to spicy foods.
  • Salmon is best marinated up to 60 minutes; if necessary, marinating up to 4-6 hours is possible but may affect texture.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/salmon-marinade-recipe/