Broiled Salmon: 10 Min Flavor Explosion

Broiled salmon has become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying dinner, especially on those busy weeknights when I’m craving something delicious but don’t have hours to cook. I remember the first time I tried this easy broiled salmon recipe; the aroma of herbs and mustard filled my kitchen, and the flaky, golden-brown fish was simply divine. It’s so simple, yet it feels like a restaurant-quality meal. This method truly brings out the best in salmon, creating a wonderfully moist and flavorful dish in under 20 minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Broiled Salmon

This recipe is a weeknight dream! Here’s why you’ll be making this easy broiled salmon again and again:

• Super Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes total, from prep to plate.
• Incredibly Flavorful: The mustard herb marinade is a flavor explosion!
• Healthy Choice: It’s a fantastic source of lean protein and omega-3s. Learn more about healthy eating.
• Minimal Cleanup: Using parchment paper means less scrubbing for you.
• Impressive Presentation: It looks and tastes like a gourmet meal.
• Versatile: Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
• Simple to Follow: Even if you’re new to broiling, this recipe is foolproof.

Ingredients for Easy Broiled Salmon

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this wonderfully flavorful easy broiled salmon. I love how simple these ingredients are, yet they come together to create something truly special. The marinade is key to making this salmon moist and delicious!

• 3 Tbsp grainy mustard – This provides a fantastic tangy base and helps create a beautiful crust.
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced – Garlic adds that essential savory depth that pairs so well with salmon.
• 1 Tbsp shallots, finely minced – Shallots offer a milder, sweeter onion flavor than regular onions, perfect for a delicate marinade.
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped – Thyme brings an earthy, slightly floral note that complements the richness of the salmon.
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped – Rosemary adds a piney, robust aroma and flavor that makes this dish sing.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon – The acidity from the lemon brightens all the flavors and helps tenderize the fish.
• 1 tsp kosher salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the salmon and the marinade.
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper – A little pepper adds a subtle kick and complexity.
• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) – Look for fresh, vibrant fillets for the best results.
• 1 lemon, sliced – For a beautiful garnish and an extra squeeze of brightness when serving.

How to Make Quick Broiled Salmon

This recipe for quick broiled salmon is so straightforward, you’ll be amazed at how easily you can create a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need something delicious in a flash.

1. Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat your broiler to high. I usually place my oven rack about 4-6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper – this is my secret weapon for easy cleanup with this easy broiled salmon.
2. Step 2: Now for the magic marinade! In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 Tbsp grainy mustard, 2 cloves garlic (finely minced, please!), 1 Tbsp shallots (also finely minced), 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves, 2 tsp fresh rosemary, the juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. The aroma alone is incredible!
3. Step 3: Take your beautiful 2 salmon fillets and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon or brush that glorious mustard herb marinade evenly over the top of each fillet. Make sure they’re nicely coated – this is where all that amazing flavor comes from for your broiled salmon for dinner.

4. Step 4: Time to broil! Carefully place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Let the salmon cook for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the top to be beautifully golden brown and slightly caramelized, and the salmon should flake easily when gently pressed with a fork. The exact time can vary a bit depending on your broiler and the thickness of your fillets, so trust those visual cues.
5. Step 5: Once perfectly cooked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the salmon rest for just a minute or two. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and those lovely lemon slices you prepared. Serve your delicious oven broiled salmon immediately and enjoy!

Broiled Salmon Marinade Recipe

The heart of this broiled salmon marinade recipe is the zesty combination of grainy mustard, fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, and bright lemon juice. Minced garlic and shallots add a savory depth that makes this simple broiled salmon truly unforgettable. It’s what ensures moist, flavorful fish every time. For more information on herb pairings, check out this guide.

Broiling the Salmon Fillets

When you’re broiling the salmon fillets, the high heat quickly cooks the fish, creating a wonderfully tender interior with a slightly crisp, golden-brown exterior from the marinade. Look for the salmon to flake easily with a fork and for the edges to be slightly opaque and caramelized. This quick cooking method ensures a flaky, moist texture for your best broiled salmon.

Pro Tips for the Best Broiled Salmon

Want to elevate your broiled salmon game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in creating perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful fish. Follow these tips for consistently amazing results!

• Don’t skip the marinade time: Letting the salmon sit in the marinade for at least 15-30 minutes before broiling really allows those flavors to penetrate, ensuring a moist and delicious result.
• Know your broiler: Broilers vary in intensity. Keep a close eye on your fish during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning.
• Use the right cut: Opt for fillets that are roughly the same thickness for even cooking. This is key for achieving that perfect flaky texture.
• Parchment paper is your friend: Seriously, it makes cleanup a breeze. No stuck-on bits, just easy removal after cooking.

What’s the secret to perfect Oven Broiled Salmon?

The real secret to perfect oven broiled salmon is a combination of a flavorful marinade and not overcooking it. Watch for those visual cues – golden brown top and easily flaking flesh – rather than relying solely on time. It guarantees a moist interior. For more cooking tips, visit our expert’s page.

Can I make Broiled Salmon ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the marinade and coat the salmon fillets up to 30 minutes before you plan to broil them. For longer prep, store the marinated salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours, but avoid marinating much longer as the lemon juice can start to “cook” the fish. If you have questions about food safety, consult our contact page.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Broiled Salmon?

The biggest mistake is overcooking, which leads to dry salmon. Always watch it closely! Another common pitfall is not preheating the broiler fully, resulting in uneven cooking. Finally, ensure your marinade has enough salt to really bring out the flavors of the fish. For more on seasoning, see our privacy policy.

Best Ways to Serve Broiled Salmon

This delicious broiled salmon for dinner is so versatile, you can pair it with almost anything! It’s perfect for a light and healthy weeknight meal or a more elegant spread. For a truly satisfying meal, I love serving it with roasted asparagus or a simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Another fantastic option is to serve it alongside fluffy quinoa or some creamy mashed potatoes. The rich flavor of the salmon, enhanced by the mustard and herbs, pairs beautifully with both fresh greens and hearty starches, making it a delightful addition to any table.

Nutrition Facts for Healthy Broiled Salmon Recipe

This healthy broiled salmon recipe is as good for you as it is delicious! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, so you know exactly what you’re enjoying.

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 90 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Broiled Salmon

Properly storing and reheating your delicious broiled salmon ensures you can enjoy its wonderful flavor even days later. Once the fish has cooled slightly after cooking, transfer it to an airtight container. For the best quality, I recommend refrigerating it within two hours. Your leftover easy broiled salmon will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you need to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This helps preserve the texture and flavor of your oven broiled salmon.

When it’s time to reheat, gentle methods work best to avoid drying out your broiled salmon fillets. For refrigerated salmon, you can gently warm it in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, or in a toaster oven at around 300°F (150°C) for about 5-8 minutes, until just heated through. For frozen salmon, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the same methods. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fish rubbery, but if you must, use a low power setting and check frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Broiled Salmon

What is broiled salmon?

Broiled salmon is a cooking method where salmon fillets are placed under direct, high heat from your oven’s broiler. This high heat sears the outside quickly, creating a delicious crust while cooking the inside to a tender, flaky perfection. It’s a fantastic way to prepare healthy broiled salmon quickly and with minimal fuss.

How long does it take to broil salmon?

The broiled salmon cooking time is remarkably short! Typically, it takes about 8 to 10 minutes under a high broiler, depending on the thickness of your broiled salmon fillets. I always keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it gets that perfect golden-brown color without burning.

Can I use other types of fish besides salmon for broiling?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on salmon, the broiling method works wonderfully for many other types of fish. Think of thick white fish like cod or halibut, or even swordfish steaks. The key is to adjust the broiled salmon cooking time based on the thickness and type of fish you’re using for your simple broiled salmon.

What temperature should I use for oven broiled salmon?

When you’re using your oven for oven broiled salmon, you’ll want to set the broiler to its highest setting. The exact temperature isn’t usually adjustable, but the goal is intense, direct heat from above. Positioning the rack correctly, usually 4-6 inches from the heat source, is more critical than a specific temperature number.

Variations of Broiled Salmon You Can Try

While this mustard herb version is fantastic, don’t be afraid to play around with flavors! This broiled salmon recipe is incredibly adaptable. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your marinade or a drizzle of sriracha. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, a teriyaki glaze or a simple lemon-garlic butter sauce works beautifully for an easy baked salmon recipe alternative. For a lighter touch, consider a simple lemon herb marinade, focusing on dill and parsley. You can also swap out the salmon for other heart-healthy fish fillets, adjusting the broiled salmon cooking time as needed for perfect results.

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