Grilling has become one of the most popular ways to cook fish, and salmon is no exception. Grilled salmon is not only healthy, but also delicious and easy to make. However, the key to a perfectly grilled salmon relies heavily on time and temperature. So, how long to cook salmon on the grill? In this blog, we will delve into the nitty-gritty of grilling salmon and provide you with all the information you need to cook salmon to perfection.
Contents
- 1 The Best Salmon For Grilling
- 2 Types Of Salmon To Choose From
- 3 Ingredients For This Grilled Salmon Recipe
- 4 How To Grill Salmon?
- 5 How Long To Cook Salmon On The Grill?
- 6 What Affect The Time To Cook Salmon On The Grill?
- 7 How Do You Know When Grilled Salmon Is Cooked?
- 8 Tips For Grilling Salmon
- 9 What To Serve With Grilled Salmon?
- 10 How To Store Leftover Grilled Salmon?
- 11 Conclusion: How Long To Cook Salmon On The Grill?
- 12 FAQ: Time To Cook Salmon On The Grill
- 12.1 How long does salmon need to be on the grill?
- 12.2 How long do you cook salmon on the grill and at what temperature?
- 12.3 Do you have to flip salmon on the grill?
- 12.4 How long to grill salmon in foil?
- 12.5 How long should fish be grilled?
- 12.6 How many minutes per side for salmon?
- 12.7 How long to grill 1.5 salmon?
- 12.8 How long should fish stay on the grill in foil?
- 12.9 How long should salmon take?
- 12.10 How long is best to cook salmon?
- 12.11 How long do you grill salmon on each side?
The Best Salmon For Grilling
When it comes to grilling salmon, there are several varieties that work well. The most popular types of salmon for grilling are Atlantic, Coho and Sockeye. Each type has slightly different qualities when cooked, so it is important to determine which variety works best with your particular recipe. Once you have chosen the right type of salmon for grilling, the next step is to decide how long to cook it.

Types Of Salmon To Choose From
- Atlantic Salmon: Atlantic salmon fillets are thick, with a firm texture and slightly oily taste. They can be grilled for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
- Coho Salmon: Coho salmon fillets have a milder flavor than Atlantic salmon and are thin-cut. These fillets can be grilled for 8 minutes per inch of thickness.
- Sockeye Salmon: Sockeye salmon fillets have a slightly firmer texture and richer flavor than other varieties. They can be grilled for 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
Ingredients For This Grilled Salmon Recipe
For this grilled salmon recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of fresh salmon fillet, skin on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice from half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
How To Grill Salmon?
Before we jump to cooking time, let’s talk about the right way to grill salmon.
- Firstly, preheat the grill to high heat (about 400°F) and grease the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- It’s also recommended to marinate the salmon before grilling to enhance its flavor.
- Place the salmon fillets skin down onto the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Then, flip the salmon over and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the flesh is just opaque on the inside.
- Remember not to overcook the salmon as it becomes dry and chewy.
How Long To Cook Salmon On The Grill?
So, how long to cook salmon on the grill? The answer is depend. Here are the cooking times for grilling salmon that you can concern.
Cooking Time For Salmon Fillets
The rule of thumb for cooking salmon on the grill is 10 minutes per inch of thickness. Therefore, if the salmon fillet is about 1 inch thick, it will take about 5-6 minutes on the flesh side and 3-4 minutes on the skin side. On the other hand, if the salmon fillet is about 1.5 inches thick, it will take about 8-9 minutes on the flesh side and 4-5 minutes on the skin side. Keep in mind that factors such as the heat intensity of the grill and the thickness of the fillet can affect the cooking time.
Cooking Time For Salmon Steaks
Salmon steaks are a little different from fillets because they are thicker and bone-in. As a general guideline, cook the salmon steak at high heat for about 5-6 minutes each side. However, it is always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the steak reaches at least 145°F. A proper temperature reading guarantees that the salmon steak is cooked through and safe to eat.
Cooking Time For Whole Salmon
Grilling a whole salmon may seem intimidating, but it’s actually easy. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grill grates generously. Place the whole salmon onto the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping it halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the salmon, but the internal temperature should be at least 145°F.
Read more: how long does salmon last in the fridge
What Affect The Time To Cook Salmon On The Grill?
The cooking time of salmon on the grill can be affected by several factors such as the type and cut of the salmon, grill temperature, marinating time and thickness. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to these factors when grilling salmon in order to ensure a safe and delicious meal.

How Do You Know When Grilled Salmon Is Cooked?
The best way to tell if grilled salmon is cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish and check for an internal temperature of 145°F. This ensures that the salmon is cooked through and safe to eat. Additionally, you can also look for signs such as a flaky texture and opaque color.
If you don’t have a thermometer, use a fork or spatula to check that the salmon flakes easily and is cooked through before serving.
Grilling salmon can be easy and rewarding if done right. Be sure to marinate the fish beforehand, preheat the grill properly and monitor the cooking time carefully. With this guide, you can now cook perfectly grilled salmon each and every time.
Tips For Grilling Salmon
Grilling salmon can be a bit tricky because it’s a delicate fish that can easily stick to the grill. To prevent sticking, use a non-stick spray or oil the grill grates before cooking.
You can also grill the salmon on a piece of aluminum foil or a cedar plank for added flavor.
Another tip is to always cook the skin side first, as it will adhere well to the grill grates and prevent the fish from falling apart.
Finally, don’t flip the salmon too early or too often, as it can break apart, and avoid pressing down on the fish with a spatula.
What To Serve With Grilled Salmon?
Grilled salmon is a great main course that can be served with a variety of sides. Popular side dishes for grilled salmon include roasted vegetables, salads, rice dishes, potatoes and pasta. Additionally, grilled salmon pairs nicely with fruits such as mangoes, avocados and pineapples. You can also serve it with sauces or condiments like pesto teriyaki sauce or tartar sauce.
No matter what choose to serve with your grilled salmon, you can be sure that it will be a delicious and healthy meal.
How To Store Leftover Grilled Salmon?
If you have leftover grilled salmon, it is important to store it in the refrigerator or freezer within two hours of cooking. To store cooked salmon, wrap it tightly in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To freeze cooked salmon, place it into a sealed container with a tight-fitting lid and freeze for up to four months. To reheat, thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat using a microwave or stovetop.
By properly storing your grilled salmon, you can enjoy it again later without worrying about food safety.

Conclusion: How Long To Cook Salmon On The Grill?
Now you know how long to cook salmon on the grill. Grilling salmon on the grill is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this nutritious fish. The cooking time for salmon varies with the thickness of the fillet, steak, or whole fish. The rule of thumb is to cook it for 10 minutes per inch of thickness, but it’s always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked through. By following these tips and guidelines, you can cook the perfect salmon every time. Thanks for reading at mollysmtview!
FAQ: Time To Cook Salmon On The Grill
How long does salmon need to be on the grill?
Grill your salmon with confidence! Just 12 minutes on the grill will ensure a succulent medium-rare finish, as verfied by an instant read thermometer. To guarantee maximum flavor and juiciness, let it rest for several moments before serving – you won’t be disappointed.
How long do you cook salmon on the grill and at what temperature?
Fire up the grill and get ready to cook a delicious piece of salmon! Seal it in a foil packet for easy preparation, then close your grill lid so that you can enjoy 14-18 minutes of mouthwatering aromas. The perfect temperature? Somewhere between 375 to 400 degrees F – resulting in tender succulent fish sure to be devoured with delight.
Do you have to flip salmon on the grill?
Achieving the perfect grill marks on your salmon doesn’t require a flip! Just heat an oiled-grill, place your fish facing down and let it cook until you can gently detach it from the grates. Then, use a wide spatula to serve up that perfectly grilled seafood delicacy.
How long to grill salmon in foil?
Grill up some deliciousness with this easy-breezy foil packet recipe: simply set your salmon on the grill, give it a cover and wait for 10 to 15 minutes until its cooked through or reaches that perfect desired crispiness.
How long should fish be grilled?
To achieve a perfectly grilled fish, allow 8-10 minutes per inch of thickness. For example, if your chosen dish requires two inches in size the usual cook time is around 6-8 minutes per side – however it’s always advised to cross check and follow instructions as noted on any applicable recipes.
How many minutes per side for salmon?
Place the salmon in your preheated pan with skin-side up for a perfectly golden brown finish. Let cook on one side and then flip it over to crisp the skin, if desired. When finished cooking, you can easily remove or serve along with its crispy exterior using just a knife or spoon.
How long to grill 1.5 salmon?
For perfectly cooked salmon, brush the grill rack with oil and place your fish over indirect heat. Leave it to cook for about 20 minutes before testing its doneness by pressing a paring knife against your lower lip.
How long should fish stay on the grill in foil?
Fire up your grill, setting half of it to high heat and getting the cover closed. Place foil packets on the side with no burners for indirect heating – cook time will vary based upon fish thickness, about 10-15 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
How long should salmon take?
Enjoy delicious, juicy salmon in record time – perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions! Simply preheat your oven to 350 F and bake it on a foil-lined pan for 20 to 25 minutes. If you’re short on time, an air fryer or grill will do the job even faster. You can also add some creativity with tasty glazes and marinades that infuse extra flavor into every bite.
How long is best to cook salmon?
Prepare the oven for a delicious treat! Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Season salmon with salt and pepper, then place it skin side down on a non-stick baking sheet or in an oven-proof pan that has been treated with non-stick spray. Bake until cooked through – approximately 12 to 15 minutes – and enjoy all of its succulent flavors!
How long do you grill salmon on each side?
Grill up perfect salmon with ease! Start by placing the flesh-side against the heat, then cover and let cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Flip once lightly cooked and finish off grilling for another few moments until just flaky – a shorter time will ensure your dish is tender yet flavorful. With this method you’ll be sure not to overcook any of your filets.

Bobby Kelly is a bartender at Molly Magees, an Irish pub in Mountain View. He’s been working there for two years and has developed a following among the regulars. Bobby is known for his friendly demeanor and great drink specials. He loves interacting with customers and making them feel welcome. When he’s not at work, Bobby enjoys spending time with his friends and family.