Looking for a refreshing dish that’s both Paleo-friendly and bursting with flavor? Lemony grilled salmon might just be your new favorite. This recipe combines the rich taste of salmon with a bright citrus kick, giving you a nutritious meal without compromising on taste.
Most importantly, this dish fits right into a Paleo diet plan. By focusing on whole foods and avoiding processed ingredients, you’ll keep your body happy while treating your taste buds to a delightfully tangy treat.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional garnish)
Directions
- Marinate the salmon. Place the fillets in a shallow dish. Whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the salmon, then let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the grill. Warm up your grill to medium-high heat so it’s ready when you are.
- Grill the salmon. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes. Flip carefully, then cook for another 3–4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve and garnish. Plate your salmon and sprinkle fresh dill on top for a final pop of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
While exact numbers can vary, a typical six-ounce portion of lemony grilled salmon provides approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
These figures highlight how high-protein and low-carb this meal can be, making it a perfect fit for a Paleo lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
With minimal prep time and a bright citrus zing, this grilled salmon recipe is made for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend feast. You’ll get a satisfying protein boost along with healthy fats, and you won’t feel weighed down after you eat. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
- Absolutely. Thaw them first in the fridge overnight, then follow the same marinade and grilling steps.
- What if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
- A grill pan or even a regular skillet works great. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Can I substitute fresh herbs?
- Feel free to use parsley or basil if dill isn’t your thing. Fresh rosemary also pairs nicely with lemon.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Cool the remaining salmon completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 2 days for peak freshness.
Paleo Diet Recipes for Lemony Grilled Salmon
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional garnish)
Directions
- Marinate the salmon. Place the fillets in a shallow dish. Whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the salmon, then let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the grill. Warm up your grill to medium-high heat so it’s ready when you are.
- Grill the salmon. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes. Flip carefully, then cook for another 3–4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve and garnish. Plate your salmon and sprinkle fresh dill on top for a final pop of color and flavor.