When good weather invites us to enjoy outdoor meals, there's no better way to celebrate than lighting the grill to prepare something special. Today I suggest a recipe that captures the essence of these moments, the Lemon Marinated Salmon Skewers, perfect for cooking on your Le Creuset iron grill or on a traditional barbecue.
This preparation is not only simple and quick, but it also lets you savor the rich contrast between the lemon’s citrus and the salmon’s tenderness, enhanced by the characteristic smoky aroma of the grill. Whether you want to impress your guests or simply enjoy a light, healthy meal, these skewers promise to become the centerpiece of your table. Join me to discover how to turn a few simple ingredients into a star dish, worthy of any outdoor celebration.
What to serve with the salmon skewers
An excellent option to accompany these skewers is a fresh green leaf salad; the lightness and freshness of the salad balance the richness of the salmon, while an olive oil and lemon dressing can echo the flavors of the marinade. If you prefer something heartier, roasted rosemary roasted potatoes can be your best choice, offering a contrast of textures and flavors that complement the salmon without overpowering it.
For those who can't resist a good portion of carbs, a lightly scented jasmine rice or couscous with fresh herbs are side dishes that harmonize with the delicacy of the main course. Additionally, to add a crunchy and colorful touch to the menu, some roasted vegetables, like asparagus, peppers, and zucchini, can be the perfect garnish.
Don't forget that a good meal always deserves a drink to match. A fresh, fruity white wine or a citrus- and herb-infused water are ideal options that will refresh your palate and enhance the flavors of your main dish.
Ingredients
For the salmon skewer:
- 500 g of fresh salmon, skinless
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
To marinate the salmon:
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional for color and flavor)
Optional (for the skewers):
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one green), cut into pieces
- 1 large onion, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dill or chopped cilantro
Preparation
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, chopped garlic, salt, pepper and the sweet paprika. Stir well.
- Wash the salmon, pat it dry with paper towels and cut it into large cubes.
- Marinate the salmon: Add the salmon cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Mix gently so the salmon is well coated. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the skewers: If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to keep them from burning on the barbecue or grill. Thread the pieces of salmon onto the skewers, alternating with bell pepper and onion if you want to add the vegetables to the skewer.
- Heat the grill or the iron grill: Set up your barbecue or grill over medium-high heat and make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the skewers.
- Cook the skewers: Place the skewers on the barbecue grill or directly on the iron grill. Cook, turning occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables have a nice roasted color, about 3-4 minutes per side. Just before finishing, you can brush the skewers with a bit more olive oil and lemon juice to add sheen and flavor.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with chopped dill or cilantro if desired and serve hot, accompanied by extra lemon wedges.
If you like, you can serve it with yogurt and dill sauce . To prepare it, here are the ingredients and preparation:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 garlic clove, very finely chopped or pressed
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare the yogurt sauce: in a bowl, mix the yogurt with the dill, lemon juice and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well until all ingredients are combined.
Enjoy your Grilled Salmon Skewers on the grill or barbecue with a fresh salad or your favorite side for a complete, delicious meal! With the yogurt sauce or without it, it’s a fabulous dish. I especially like it when the warmer weather starts to show, but it’s a dish to enjoy all year long.
