Grilling salmon is like orchestrating a culinary symphony in your backyard. Imagine the tantalizing aroma wafting through the air as the fish sizzles on the grill, kissed by flames and infused with smoky goodness. Picture it served alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes that are so rich and buttery they make you question everything you thought you knew about comfort food. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, and trust me when I say your taste buds will be in for a treat.
I remember the first time I made grilled salmon with garlic mashed potatoes for my family. The look on their faces was priceless when they took that first bite; it was as if I had just handed them a golden ticket to flavor town. Now this dish has become our go-to for special occasions or just those nights when we want to feel fancy without breaking out the fine china.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious grilled salmon with garlic mashed potatoes is simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining
- Bursting with flavor, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike
- The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing on any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with seasonal veggies or a fresh salad
Cooking this dish always brings back memories of fun summer evenings spent grilling outside while catching up with loved ones.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh fillets from wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; use high-quality oil for enhanced flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are key here; they add a robust flavor that elevates the mashed potatoes.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best; both create fluffy and creamy mashed potatoes.
- Butter: A generous dollop of butter makes everything better—don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Salt & Pepper: Use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for seasoning; don’t forget these staples.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens flavors; just a squeeze can elevate your dish dramatically.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Dill or parsley pairs wonderfully with salmon; sprinkle some on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Season the Salmon: Drizzle olive oil over each salmon fillet, then season generously with salt, pepper, and a spritz of lemon juice. Let it sit while prepping the potatoes.
Cook the Potatoes: Peel and chop your chosen potatoes into even pieces. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, which takes about 15-20 minutes.
Create Garlic Butter Mash: While the potatoes cook, melt some butter in a pan over low heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned—about 1-2 minutes is ideal.
Mash It Up!: Drain your boiled potatoes and return them to the pot. Add sautéed garlic butter along with more butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth (or leave lumps if you like!).
Grill That Salmon!: Place seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down onto the hot grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side until flaky and cooked through—don’t forget to flip!
Serve It Up!: Plate each salmon fillet beside a generous scoop of garlic mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then dig in!
This delightful blend of flavors is sure to have everyone asking for seconds—and possibly even thirds! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- To make the best Grilled Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, always choose fresh salmon
- The perfect balance of creamy potatoes and tender fish creates a delightful dish
- This recipe is quick to prepare and impresses guests every time, making it a go-to for gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes while marinating the salmon. Grill the salmon last to ensure everything is hot and ready at once.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add herbs like dill for an extra flavor kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly flaky salmon, use a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F
- Avoid overcooking the potatoes to keep them creamy and smooth
- Always let your grilled salmon rest for a few minutes before serving for maximum juiciness
Cooking this dish always reminds me of my cousin’s wedding, where my grilled salmon stole the show! The compliments were endless, and I felt like a culinary rock star that day.
FAQ
What type of salmon is best for grilling?
Wild-caught salmon has better flavor and texture compared to farmed options.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold or red potatoes work wonderfully for garlic mashed potatoes.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.
Grilled Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Grilled Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a delightful dish featuring perfectly grilled salmon paired with creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh garlic
- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- Butter
- Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C) and lightly oil the grates.
- Drizzle olive oil on salmon fillets; season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Set aside.
- Peel and chop potatoes; boil in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes).
- Sauté minced garlic in melted butter over low heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Drain cooked potatoes and mash with garlic butter, remaining butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Grill salmon skin-side down for 6-8 minutes per side until flaky.
- Serve salmon alongside garlic mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g) with 1 cup garlic mashed potatoes (240g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
