5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Name: 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lb. side of salmon (skin on); 3 Tbsp soy sauce; 2 Tbsp dijon mustard; 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic (1 large clove); 1/3 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill); Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: August 1, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just five ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines savory soy sauce and tangy dijon mustard for a delightful taste.
Healthy Meal Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salmon recipe is nutritious and satisfying.
Versatile Serving: Serve it with a salad, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that fits any palate.
Easy Cleanup: Minimal cooking tools mean less time spent cleaning up after your delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with the 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, gather your tools and equipment to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife
13 by 9-inch baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect grilled flavor and texture on the salmon.
Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your marinade ingredients smoothly.
Whisk: Helps emulsify the marinade ensuring all flavors blend well.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

3 lb. side of salmon (skin on)
3 Tbsp soy sauce
2 Tbsp dijon mustard
1 1/2 tsp minced garlic (1 large clove)
1/3 cup olive oil (plus more for brushing grill)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Lay the salmon skin side down on a cutting board.
Cut the salmon crosswise into six equal portions.
Transfer these pieces to a 13 by 9-inch baking dish, skin side down.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil.
Continue whisking until the mixture is fully emulsified.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the marinade mixture.
Spoon and spread the remaining marinade over the salmon portions.
Let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

While the salmon marinates, preheat your grill over medium-high heat to about 400 degrees F.
Clean the grill grates thoroughly and brush them with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon

Place the salmon on the grill skin side down.
Cook for approximately 4 minutes before carefully flipping it (you can roll it gently).
Continue grilling another 4 minutes or until desired doneness is achieved.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove any skin from the salmon after grilling.
Plate each portion of salmon and brush with the reserved marinade mixture.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon!

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Serving 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is simple and delightful. This dish pairs well with various side items and garnishes that enhance its flavor while making your meal visually appealing.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Minced Parsley: Sprinkling some minced parsley adds a fresh touch and color to your dish.
Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze over the salmon.

Pair with Side Salads

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers in a tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Starches

Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain adds texture and absorbs the flavors of the marinade beautifully.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting option that pairs wonderfully with grilled salmon.

How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

To achieve the best results, follow these helpful tips when preparing your grilled salmon.

Marinate Longer: Allowing the salmon to marinate for up to 30 minutes can enhance flavor absorption.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh garlic and quality olive oil for a more vibrant taste.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before cooking prevents sticking and promotes nice grill marks.
Check Doneness Carefully: Use a fork to gently flake the thickest part of the fish; it should be opaque and flake easily when done.

Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Complementing your grilled salmon with tasty sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender offers a delicious crunch.
Brown Rice Pilaf: A simple rice dish mixed with herbs adds nutty flavors alongside the salmon.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a fun summer side.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach provides a nutritious green option full of flavor.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture, perfect for balancing flavors.
Caprese Salad: This classic salad combines tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a refreshing bite that complements grilled fish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. To ensure it remains moist, aim for about 4 minutes per side on the grill. Use a timer to keep track.
Ignoring the marinade time: Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
Not preheating the grill: A hot grill helps achieve those perfect grill marks and prevents sticking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the salmon on it.
Using low-quality ingredients: Since this recipe has only five ingredients, quality matters. Opt for fresh salmon and good olive oil for maximum flavor.
Neglecting to clean the grill grates: Clean grates ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Scrub them before grilling for a smooth experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It can remain fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
It can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing quality.

Reheating 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm to avoid drying it out.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover until warmed, usually around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon?

Seasoning comes naturally from the marinade made with soy sauce and dijon mustard. However, you can add herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.

Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe is designed for salmon, other fatty fish like trout or mackerel could also work well with similar marinades.

How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinating for at least 10 minutes allows flavors to penetrate without compromising texture.

What side dishes pair well with grilled salmon?

Grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad complement grilled salmon nicely and enhance your meal experience.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the salmon earlier in the day and grill it just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

The 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is not just simple; it’s incredibly flavorful and versatile. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Give this easy recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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