Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon offer a delightful blend of flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these skewers are quick to prepare and bursting with freshness. The combination of garlic, lemon, and Dijon mustard elevates the natural taste of salmon, resulting in juicy, flaky bites that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Marinade: The unique blend of garlic, Dijon mustard, and lemon creates a deliciously zesty marinade that infuses the salmon with incredible flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers as an appetizer, main course, or even slice them up for salads or wraps—perfect for any meal!
• Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: Beautifully grilled skewers look great on any plate, impressing your guests without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo Skewers: Soaking these helps prevent burning during grilling. They also hold the salmon securely for easy flipping.
• Grill: A medium heat grill allows for perfect cooking without drying out the salmon. It imparts a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
• Medium Bowl: This is essential for mixing your marinade thoroughly to ensure all flavors combine well.
• Basting Brush: Use this to apply the marinade evenly on the skewers for maximum flavor.

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)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice from 1/2 large lemon or 1 small lemon

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Step 1: Prep the Skewers

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

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine 2 Tbsp chopped parsley.
2. Add in 2 pressed garlic cloves.
3. Mix in 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard, followed by 1/2 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper.
4. Pour in 2 Tbsp olive oil and then stir in 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice until well blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Double skewer salmon pieces and folded lemon slices onto two skewers at a time:
– This technique allows for easier turning while grilling.
– Brush both sides of each skewer generously with the marinade.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Oil the grates lightly before placing the skewers on:
– Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and opaque.
– Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Now you’re ready to serve these delicious Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon! Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Serving grilled salmon skewers is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal. These skewers are versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes for a complete dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the flavors of the salmon beautifully.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tartar Sauce: A classic choice that pairs well with seafood.
• Chimichurri: This herb-based sauce adds a zesty kick to your skewers.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill these alongside the skewers for a colorful plate.
• Asparagus: Lightly seasoned, they provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with salmon.

How to Perfect Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Achieving the perfect grilled salmon skewers requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Use Two Skewers: Double skewer the salmon pieces to prevent them from spinning while grilling.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it for even cooking.
• Check for Doneness: The salmon should be opaque; use a fork to check its flakiness.
• Oil the Grill Grates: Prevent sticking by oiling your grill grates before cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

Pairing side dishes with grilled salmon skewers enhances your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious complement.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side.
3. Coleslaw: Refreshing cabbage slaw adds crunch and balance against the salmon’s richness.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with broth elevates the meal’s flavor profile.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter completes any summer BBQ.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the soak: Not soaking bamboo skewers can lead to them catching fire on the grill. Always soak your skewers for at least one hour before grilling.

• Overcrowding the skewers: Adding too much salmon or lemon slices can prevent even cooking. Make sure to leave some space between pieces for better heat circulation.

• Ignoring marinade time: Rushing the marinating process can lead to bland salmon. Allow the skewers to marinate for at least 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.

• Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it.

• Using low-quality oil: Opting for extra virgin olive oil may cause smoke when grilling. Choose a light olive oil with a higher smoke point for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover grilled salmon skewers in an airtight container.
• item They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

• item Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• item They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and warm the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like swordfish or tuna for different flavors.

How do I make Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon spicier?

To add some spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into your marinade.

Can I cook these salmon skewers in the oven?

Absolutely! Simply place them on a baking sheet and broil them for about 8-10 minutes until cooked through.

What sides pair well with Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon?

These skewers pair excellently with fresh salads, rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when my salmon is done cooking?

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

Final Thoughts

Grilled Salmon Skewers with Garlic and Dijon are not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With their juicy texture and zesty flavor, they’re sure to impress. Feel free to customize these skewers by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste!