Name: Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs salmon fillets (cut into 1-inch squares); 2 large lemons (thinly sliced); 2 Tbsp parsley (freshly chopped); 2-3 garlic cloves (pressed); ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard; ½ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp ground black pepper; 2 Tbsp light olive oil; 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon are a delicious and healthy option for any meal. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even a quick weeknight meal, these skewers offer juicy, flaky salmon infused with zesty garlic and Dijon flavors. You can whip them up in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delightful meal ready to serve.
Flavor Packed: The garlic and Dijon marinade create a burst of flavor that elevates the natural taste of the salmon.
Versatile Dish: These skewers work well as an appetizer or main dish and pair perfectly with various sides.
Healthy and Nutritious: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this recipe provides great health benefits without compromising on taste.
Easy Cleanup: Cooking on skewers means less mess and easier cleanup after your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon, gather all necessary tools. Having everything prepared will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

10-inch bamboo skewers
Grill
Medium bowl
Basting brush
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

10-inch bamboo skewers: These are essential for holding the salmon and lemon together while grilling, ensuring even cooking.
Grill: A good grill is crucial for achieving the perfect char on your skewers, enhancing flavor while keeping the salmon juicy.
Medium bowl: This is used for mixing your marinade ingredients together efficiently.
Basting brush: Helps to apply marinade evenly on both sides of the salmon for maximum flavor infusion.

Ingredients

These take less than 30 minutes to make and you end up with such juicy, flaky and flavorful salmon… you’ll want seconds!

For the Salmon

1.5 lbs salmon fillets (cut into 1-inch squares)
2 large lemons thinly sliced

For the Marinade

2 Tbsp parsley (freshly chopped)
2 large or 3 small garlic cloves (pressed)
1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard (we used grey poupon)
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp ground black pepper
2 Tbsp light olive oil (not extra virgin, pick something with a higher smoke point)
2 Tbsp of fresh lemon juice from 1/2 large lemon or 1 small lemon

How to Make Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Step 1: Prep the Skewers

Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 1 hour to prevent them from catching fire on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat around 375˚F.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, stir together all of the marinade ingredients:
1. Add 2 Tbsp chopped parsley.
2. Press in 2 garlic cloves.
3. Mix in 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard.
4. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
5. Pour in 2 Tbsp light olive oil and squeeze in fresh lemon juice.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Double skewer pieces of salmon and folded lemon slices onto two skewers at a time:
– This technique helps make turning easier while grilling.
– Brush both sides of each skewer with marinade before grilling.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Oil the grates of your grill:
– Place salmon skewers carefully onto the hot BBQ.
– Grill kebobs for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are cooked through and opaque.

Now you have delicious Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon ready to impress your family or guests! Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

A fresh salad mix provides a crunchy contrast to the tender salmon. Top with a light vinaigrette for added flavor.

With Couscous or Quinoa

These grains soak up the flavors from the marinade while adding texture and nutrients to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the skewers just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Alongside Dipping Sauces

Serve with lemon aioli or tzatziki for guests who enjoy dipping their food. These sauces complement the garlic and Dijon flavors beautifully.

Wrapped in Lettuce Leaves

For a low-carb option, place grilled salmon skewers in lettuce leaves. Add some sliced avocado and salsa for a refreshing bite.

How to Perfect Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Achieving the perfect grilled salmon skewers requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets yield better flavor and texture than frozen ones. Look for vibrant color and minimal fishy smell.
Soak Skewers Properly: Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring your skewers hold together well throughout cooking.
Marinate Longer: Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor absorption, resulting in juicier skewers.
Use Medium Heat: Cooking on medium heat helps prevent burning while allowing the salmon to cook through evenly without drying out.
Monitor Cooking Time: Grill the skewers for just 3-4 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to dry salmon, so keep an eye on them!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Pairing your Grilled Salmon Skewers with complementary sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent side dish options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the zesty salmon.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a healthy crunch that pairs well with grilled flavors.
Mediterranean Rice Salad: This colorful salad combines rice, olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a refreshing taste.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions cooked on the grill add smoky flavor.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory taste of salmon perfectly; try grilling it for extra charred goodness.
Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw offers a tangy crunch that balances out the richness of the grilled skewers.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber slices dressed in vinegar brighten up your plate while enhancing flavors.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a satisfying contrast to flaky salmon, adding sweetness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

Not soaking the skewers: Failing to soak bamboo skewers can lead to them catching fire on the grill. Always soak them for at least 1 hour.
Overcooking the salmon: Cooking salmon too long makes it dry. Grill for only 3-4 minutes per side until it’s opaque.
Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the salmon can result in bland flavor. Always prepare and use the marinade for added taste.
Using low-quality oil: Using the wrong type of oil can affect grilling. Choose light olive oil with a higher smoke point for best results.
Crowding the grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill at once can lower the temperature. Give them space to cook evenly.

Refrigerator Storage

Store grilled salmon skewers in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Wrap each skewer in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and reheat skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of fish for these skewers?

You can substitute other fish like trout or swordfish, but adjust cooking times as needed since different fish have varying cooking times.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. A food thermometer should read 145°F (63°C).

What sides pair well with Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon?

Great sides include grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These Grilled Salmon Skewers are perfect for meal prep. Just store them properly after cooking, and they’ll be great for quick meals during the week.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor that will please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the herbs used in the marinade. Enjoy these juicy skewers as part of a healthy meal or serve them at your next gathering!