## **🍋 Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon – A Classic Favorite**
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Servings:** 2
**Calories per Serving:** 400 kcal
### **📖 The Story Behind the Dish**
Salmon has long been considered one of the **healthiest and most flavorful** seafood options. Packed with **Omega-3 fatty acids**, it’s a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Grilling salmon with **lemon and herbs** enhances its natural richness while adding a burst of freshness. This dish is **perfect for summer BBQs, family dinners, or even meal prep**—an effortlessly delicious way to enjoy salmon at its best.
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### **📝 Ingredients:**
– 2 salmon fillets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
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### **🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the marinade:** In a small bowl, whisk together **olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, parsley, garlic, salt, and black pepper**. This marinade is what gives the salmon its **bold, fresh flavor**.
2. **Marinate the salmon:** Coat the fillets evenly with the mixture and let them sit for **at least 15 minutes**. Marinating longer (up to 30 minutes) will enhance the taste even more!
3. **Heat the grill:** Preheat a grill or grill pan to **medium heat** and lightly brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. **Grill the salmon:** Place salmon fillets **skin-side down** and grill for about **4-5 minutes**. Then, flip carefully and grill for another **4 minutes**, until the salmon turns **golden brown and flakes easily** with a fork.
5. **Serve and enjoy:** Pair with **roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad** for a complete meal.
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### **🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):**
– **Calories:** 400 kcal
– **Protein:** 40g
– **Fat:** 22g
– **Carbs:** 5g
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sodium:** 450mg
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### **💡 Cooking Tips & Variations:**
– **Make it buttery:** Place a small pat of **butter** on each fillet just before serving for added richness.
– **Try different citrus:** Swap lemon for **orange** or **lime** to give the dish a unique twist.
– **Oven-bake alternative:** Bake salmon at **375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes** for a juicy, flaky result.
– **Make it spicy:** Sprinkle a pinch of **crushed red pepper flakes** for extra heat.
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### **🔎 SEO-Optimized FAQ Section:**
**Q: Can I use frozen salmon?**
Yes! Just thaw it in the refrigerator **overnight** or under cold water for **30 minutes** before cooking.
**Q: How can I prevent salmon from sticking to the grill?**
Make sure your grill is well-oiled, and don’t move the salmon too soon—**it naturally releases when ready to flip!**
**Q: What’s the best way to check if salmon is done?**
Use a fork—if the salmon **flakes easily**, it’s perfectly cooked!
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### **📢 User Engagement & Serving Suggestions**
– **Pair it with the best wine:** **Chardonnay or Pinot Noir** complement the salmon beautifully.
– **Ask for feedback:** Encourage readers to share their own **favorite salmon seasonings** in the comments!
– **Interactive hook:** Suggest readers try **different herb combinations** and report back on what works best.
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