Salmon fishing in our house is a huge annual event in the Pacific Northwest. The fishing season is very short so the goal is to catch your limit every day. Right now you are only allowed one fish per day. We take pride in preparing and cooking fresh salmon and I am sharing you our favorite way to eat salmon.
It’s simple and fast and the result is the best tasting salmon you will ever eat. The key is to not overcook the salmon. When the fish is tender it tastes the best.

Easy Summer Salmon BBQ Recipe

This simple BBQ salmon is tender, flaky, and coated in a sweet and smoky barbecue glaze. Ready in about 20 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights, backyard cookouts, or summer dinners on the patio.

Print Recipe

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets 6 oz each, skin on or off
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¾ cup your favorite barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup optional, for extra caramelization
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional, adds depth
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Garnish
Chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges
Thinly sliced green onions optional

Method

Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium heat (375–400°F).
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Season with:
Salt
Pepper
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Make the BBQ Glaze
In a small bowl, stir together:
Barbecue sauce
Honey (if using)
Dijon mustard (if using)
Lemon juice
Grill the Salmon
Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill.
Close the lid and cook for 6–7 minutes.
Brush generously with the BBQ glaze.
Continue cooking for another 3–5 minutes, brushing with more glaze once or twice, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Serve
Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with parsley, green onions, and fresh lemon wedges.

Notes

Gal Pal Tips

Keep the salmon skin-side down while grilling—it helps protect the fish and makes it easier to handle.
Wait until the last few minutes to add the BBQ sauce. Since it contains sugar, applying it too early can cause it to burn.
If you’re using cedar planks, soak them in water for at least 1 hour before grilling for a subtle smoky flavor.

Delicious Variations

🍍 Pineapple BBQ Salmon

Add grilled pineapple slices on top before serving.

🌶 Sweet & Spicy

Mix 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder or a dash of cayenne into the BBQ sauce.

🍑 Peach BBQ

Stir 2 tablespoons peach preserves into the barbecue sauce for a fruity twist.

🍯 Honey Bourbon

Add 1 tablespoon bourbon to the glaze for a rich, smoky flavor.

Perfect Side Dishes

Serve with:

Roasted beet and goat cheese salad
Grilled corn on the cob
Garlic roasted potatoes
Coleslaw
Grilled asparagus
Watermelon salad
Cornbread or dinner rolls

Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or enjoy cold over a salad.

Gal Pal Tip: For the juiciest salmon, take it off the grill as soon as it flakes easily. A final brush of warm BBQ sauce just before serving adds extra flavor and a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes! 🐟🔥

This salmon recipe works great for a 4th of July celebration – serve the patriotic dipped strawberries to boot!

Cedar Plank Barbecue Salmon Recipe- Family Favorite