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.
Full Recipe Card (Ingredients + Instructions)
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on preferred)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Lime Butter:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, smashed
2 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
1 tsp lime zest
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil grates.
Pat salmon dry. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
Grill skin-side down for 4–5 minutes. Flip and cook 2–3 minutes more.
Meanwhile, melt butter with garlic in saucepan. Stir in lime juice, zest, and dill.
Transfer salmon to plates. Spoon garlic lime butter over top. Serve with lime wedges.
