Nothing captures the spirit of summer quite like perfectly grilled salmon.

Add to that the brightness of lime, the richness of butter, and the kick of garlic—and you’ve got a recipe that’s bound to be a regular on your dinner rotation.

This grilled salmon with garlic lime butter is one of those simple yet sophisticated meals.

With minimal prep and clean-up, it’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or even a date-night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Takes less than 20 minutes from prep to plate

Garlic-lime butter melts over hot salmon for unbeatable flavor

Crispy skin, juicy flesh—the ultimate texture combo

Naturally low-carb, high-protein, and rich in omega-3s

Pairs beautifully with sides or stands strong solo

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Salmon fillets (skin-on) – great for grilling

Unsalted butter – melts into a luscious glaze

Fresh lime juice + zest – brings brightness

Garlic cloves (smashed or minced) – savory depth

Fresh dill – classic herb for seafood

Olive oil, salt, and black pepper – essential seasoning

Pro Tips Before You Start

Start with dry salmon fillets—pat them down for better sear

Don’t overcook—salmon should flake easily but stay juicy inside

Let salmon rest for a few minutes to lock in moisture

Use a fish spatula to make flipping easier and prevent sticking

Preheat your grill well to ensure those perfect sear lines

How to Make Grilled Salmon with Garlic Lime Butter

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Clean and oil the grates lightly to help prevent the salmon from sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.

Brush both sides with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Let the salmon rest at room temperature while the grill finishes heating.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Lime Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the smashed garlic cloves and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Remove from heat, then stir in fresh lime juice, lime zest, and chopped dill.

Set aside while you grill the fish.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the hot grill.

Cover and cook for 4–5 minutes, depending on thickness, until the skin is crisp and the bottom is opaque.

Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Transfer the salmon to plates and spoon the warm garlic lime butter over each fillet.

Serve with lime wedges and your choice of side dishes.

What to Serve It With

Garlic rice, herbed couscous, or quinoa

Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or broccolini

Baby arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

Roasted sweet potatoes or mashed cauliflower

White wine, sparkling water with lime, or crisp cider

Variations / Substitutions

Use lemon instead of lime for a more mellow flavor

Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for subtle heat

Swap dill for parsley, cilantro, or basil

Make it dairy-free with ghee or olive oil only

Try the same method with trout or halibut

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat—avoid drying it out

Avoid microwaving if possible—it can overcook the salmon

Leftovers are great flaked over salads, tucked in wraps, or stirred into pasta

Extra garlic lime butter keeps in the fridge for a week (also great on veggies!)

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat dry before grilling.

What’s the best internal temp for salmon?
Aim for 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium—juicy with a slight translucency in the center.

Do I need skin-on salmon?
Skin helps keep the fillet intact while grilling and crisps up nicely, but you can use skinless if handled carefully.

Can I grill it indoors?
Yes—use a stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet for best results.

Can I make the butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make and refrigerate it, then reheat gently before serving.

How can I tell when it’s done without a thermometer?
Insert a fork into the thickest part—if it flakes easily and is slightly pink inside, it’s ready.

Final Thoughts

This grilled salmon with garlic lime butter is one of those dishes that feels restaurant-fancy but is shockingly easy to make at home.

With minimal ingredients and big flavor, it’s perfect for weeknights, weekends, or whenever you want something fresh and nourishing.

Once you drizzle that garlic-lime butter over hot, flaky salmon—you’ll know it’s a keeper.