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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
 

  1. Preheat the Grill
  2. Heat your grill to medium heat (375–400°F).
  3. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Prepare the Salmon
  5. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
  6. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
  7. Season with:
  8. Salt
  9. Pepper
  10. Garlic powder
  11. Smoked paprika
  12. Make the BBQ Glaze
  13. In a small bowl, stir together:
  14. Barbecue sauce
  15. Honey (if using)
  16. Dijon mustard (if using)
  17. Lemon juice
  18. Grill the Salmon
  19. Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill.
  20. Close the lid and cook for 6–7 minutes.
  21. Brush generously with the BBQ glaze.
  22. 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.
  23. Serve
  24. 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! 🐟🔥