Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

These Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon are a delightful dish perfect for any gathering. With their juicy, flaky texture and robust flavor, they promise to be a hit at barbecues, family dinners, or casual weeknight meals. The combination of fresh garlic and zesty Dijon mustard elevates the salmon, making it not only tasty but also quick to prepare—taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple and takes just 28 minutes to prepare and cook.
• Flavorful: The marinade infuses the salmon with a delicious garlic and Dijon taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Great for summer barbecues, cozy dinners, or meal prep for the week.
• Healthy Option: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.
• Impressive Presentation: The skewers make for a beautiful display on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 10-inch bamboo skewers
• Grill
• Medium mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo Skewers: They hold the salmon firmly together while being grilled, ensuring even cooking.
• Grill: A good grill allows for high heat cooking which is essential for achieving that perfect char on the salmon.
• Mixing Bowl: A medium bowl makes it easy to combine all marinade ingredients before applying them to the skewers.

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
• 16 10-inch bamboo skewers

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: Prepare the Skewers

1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 1 hour. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill.
2. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375˚F).

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, mix together:
2. 2 Tbsp chopped parsley
3. 2 pressed garlic cloves
4. 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
5. 1/2 tsp salt
6. 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
7. 2 Tbsp light olive oil
8. 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Double skewer pieces of salmon and folded lemon slices onto two skewers at a time. This helps in turning them easily while grilling.
2. Brush both sides of the skewered salmon generously with the marinade.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

1. Oil the grates of your grill.
2. Carefully place the salmon skewers onto the hot BBQ.
3. Grill kebobs for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the salmon is cooked through and turns opaque.

Enjoy your perfectly grilled salmon skewers as they are or paired with your favorite side dish!

How to Serve Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Pairing them with complementary sides and garnishes enhances their flavor and presentation.

Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a hearty base that absorbs the flavors from the salmon skewers.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled alongside the skewers offer a colorful presentation and extra nutrients.

Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus that brightens the flavor of the salmon.

Tzatziki Sauce

• A cool cucumber yogurt sauce complements the warmth of the grilled skewers, adding creaminess and tang.

How to Perfect Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Creating perfect grilled salmon skewers is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Choose fresh salmon: Freshness makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Look for vibrant color and a clean smell when selecting your salmon fillets.

• Double skewer wisely: Using two skewers for each kebab prevents the salmon from twisting when you turn them on the grill, ensuring even cooking.

• Marinate time: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish deeply.

• Preheat the grill properly: Make sure your grill is at medium heat (about 375°F) before placing the skewers on it. This helps achieve nice grill marks without overcooking.

• Don’t overcrowd: Avoid crowding the skewers on the grill. Leave space between them for even cooking and better airflow.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Pairing your delicious grilled salmon skewers with tasty side dishes will make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options:

1. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with chopped vegetables and a light dressing provides a protein-packed side that complements salmon well.

2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add heartiness to your plate, making it satisfying without overshadowing the main dish.

3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil creates a simple yet elegant side that pairs beautifully with garlic flavors.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing adds crunch and balances out the richness of the salmon.

5. Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with lemon zest or herbs can soak up excess marinade flavors while offering a light texture alongside grilled items.

6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser; it’s perfect for soaking up any juices from your grilled salmon skewers.

7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a summery vibe that pairs well with grilled dishes; simply brush with butter or herb-infused olive oil before grilling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon, there are common mistakes that can affect your outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the salmon to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always let it sit for at least 15 minutes to enhance taste.
• Using Dry Skewers: If you forget to soak bamboo skewers, they may catch fire on the grill. Soak them for at least one hour before grilling.
• Overcrowding Skewers: Packing too much salmon or lemon on a skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave space between pieces for proper heat circulation.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375˚F).
• Not Oiling the Grate: Failing to oil the grill grates can cause the salmon to stick and break apart. Always oil your grates before placing the skewers on them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

• For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon.

Can I use different types of fish?

Yes, you can substitute other firm fish like swordfish or tuna if you prefer. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon?

These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon is finished cooking when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance throughout.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the skewers in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. This recipe allows room for customization—try adding different herbs or vegetables according to your taste. Enjoy these skewers at family dinners or summer barbecues!