5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Name: 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 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

Published: July 13, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only five ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The marinade of soy sauce, dijon mustard, and garlic gives the salmon a rich taste that everyone will love.
Versatile: Serve it with various sides like salads, rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this grilled salmon is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
Minimal Cleanup: With just one baking dish and a grill involved, cleanup is a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your grilled salmon effectively, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the salmon while keeping it moist inside.
Mixing Bowl: Allows you to combine the marinade easily before applying it to the salmon.
Whisk: Helps emulsify the marinade ingredients quickly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

This grilled salmon is one of the best salmon recipes I’ve tried, and it only takes FIVE ingredients. Bonus: there’s minimal prep and minimal clean up.

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 the portions to a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with skin side down.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until fully emulsified.
Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the marinade mixture for later use.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Spoon and spread the remaining marinade over the salmon pieces in the baking dish.
Let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

While the salmon marinates, preheat your grill over medium-high heat to about 400°F (200°C).
Clean the grill grates thoroughly and brush them with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon

Place the marinated salmon on the grill skin side down.
Cook for about four minutes; carefully flip using tongs (rolling works well) to cook another four minutes or until desired doneness is reached.

Step 6: Finish Up

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

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your deliciously marinated grilled salmon!

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Serving 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon can elevate any meal. The rich flavor of the salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to consider.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled until tender, asparagus adds a fresh crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: A simple and healthy addition that complements the salmon’s richness well.

Add a Citrus Twist

Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their salmon, enhancing the flavor.
Orange Segments: These can add a sweet contrast when served on the side.

Create a Flavorful Salad

Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette can refresh the palate between bites.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing enhances the flavors of the grilled salmon, making it a delicious pairing.

Garnish for Presentation

Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also freshness to the dish.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices make for an elegant addition that complements the salmon.

How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Perfecting your 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon is all about mastering technique and timing. Follow these tips to ensure your salmon turns out beautifully every time.

Bold Marinade Preparation: Ensure the marinade is well-mixed before applying it to the salmon. This guarantees even flavor distribution.
Bold Grill Temperature Control: Preheat your grill properly. A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
Bold Cooking Time Awareness: Watch cooking times closely. Overcooking can dry out the salmon; aim for about 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Bold Resting Period After Cooking: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain its juices.
Bold Skin Removal Technique: If you prefer skinless salmon, gently slide a spatula between the skin and flesh for easy removal after grilling.

Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Pairing side dishes with your marinated grilled salmon can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options you can serve alongside this dish.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes blended with garlic make for a comforting side that balances the fish’s flavor.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish cooked with herbs provides a nutritious and flavorful complement to the meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory taste of grilled salmon, creating harmony on your plate.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, making it a refreshing counterpoint to the rich fish.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs can soak up excess marinade flavors beautifully.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness and texture that contrasts nicely with salmon’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Using low-quality salmon: Always opt for fresh, high-quality salmon. It makes a significant difference in taste and texture. Look for bright colors and firm flesh.
Not marinating long enough: While this recipe calls for just 10 minutes of marinating, allowing the salmon to sit longer enhances the flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes if you have time.
Skipping the oil on the grill: Avoid sticking by brushing the grill grates with oil before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect sear without losing any fish.
Flipping too soon: Be patient when grilling. Flipping the salmon too early can cause it to break apart. Wait until it releases easily from the grill grates.
Ignoring doneness cues: Salmon can overcook quickly. Use a thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
It should be consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place in a freezer-safe bag and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place salmon on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat, add a little olive oil, and warm the salmon gently for several minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the marinade for 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon?

The marinade is simple—whisk together soy sauce, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil. This combination adds flavor while keeping the salmon moist during grilling.

Can I use different types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! While this recipe is designed for salmon, you could try it with other firm fish like swordfish or tuna. Adjust cooking times as needed.

What are good side dishes to serve with grilled salmon?

Great sides include grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice pilaf. These complement the flavors of the grilled salmon beautifully.

How long does it take to grill the salmon?

Typically, grilling takes about 8 minutes total—4 minutes per side at medium-high heat—depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the salmon up to several hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

This 5 Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings alike. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy experimenting!

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