Learn How To Barbecue Salmon
Learn how to barbecue salmon, the king of fish. Possibly the most popular
fish on the barbecue.
Salmon is the ideal fish for cooking on the barbecue as it's so versatile.
You can barbecue salmon fillet, steak and whole fish. There are also recipes
for salmon kebabs, and if you own a smoker you can make your own smoked salmon.
Salmon tends to flake easily when cooked so always ensure that you oil your
grill well when cooking it. Alternatively you can use a hinged rack, or for
some recipes you can wrap your fish up in aluminium foil, banana leaves, or
similar. Wrapping the fish up also keeps the salmon moist as it cooks in its
own juices.
The chart below gives an estimate for grilling salmon.
Grilling Times For Cooking Salmon On The Barbecue
| Cut of Salmon |
Grilling Method |
Temperature |
Cooking Time |
| 4 oz (100g) salmon fillets |
Direct heat |
High |
3 minutes each side |
| 8 oz (200g) salmon steaks |
Direct heat |
High |
5 minutes each side |
| 3 lb (1.5 kg) whole fish |
Direct heat |
High |
7 minutes each side |
| 3 lb (1.5 kg) whole fish |
Indirect heat |
Medium high |
20 minutes each side |
| Salmon kebabs |
Direct heat |
High |
5 minutes each side |
The above timings should only be used as a guide as the actual timings are
dependant on the thickness of the fish. Always refer to the recipes for more
accurate timings.
How to barbecue salmon fillets and steak.
Oil your grill well, place the salmon on the grill. Cook the first side, turn
over and cook the other side. Using a long handled spatula and tongs make turning
easier. Or use a hinged rack. Don't forget to oil the rack before putting the
salmon inside.
How to barbecue whole salmon direct method.
Exactly as for fillets and steaks.
How to barbecue whole salmon indirect method.
Set up your grill for indirect grilling. Otherwise cook as for direct grilling
but at a lower heat and cook the salmon for longer.
Here's a selection of recipes showing how to barbecue salmon using different
cuts of the fish.
- Salmon fillet - Salmon fillet with a butter sauce
- Salmon steak - Barbecue salmon with mango salsa
- Salmon steak -Barbecue Salmon Steak With Dill And thyme
- Whole fish, direct method -
Whole Barbecue Salmon
- Whole fish, indirect method -
Whole Barbecue Salmon Using The Indirect Method
- Salmon kebab - Barbecue salmon kebabs
I usually like to serve barbecue salmon simply with a choice from potatoes,
corn, salad or grilled vegetables.
|