How to Grill a Salmon on a Gas Grill

Salmon is a delicacy for all fish lovers. Rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, it is also a healthy choice for people who have high cholesterol or heart related problems. As per individual preferences, salmon can be smoked, grilled, baked, broiled, poached or fried. Whichever method you choose for preparing salmon, it tastes delicious. Amongst the different ways of cooking salmon, most people prefer grilling salmon, as it takes less time, and retains much of its flavor. What's more, the instructions for grilling a salmon on a gas grill are very easy. You just need a suitable marinade or rub, and grill for the correct time.

Cooking Salmon on a Gas Grill

For grilling tasty salmon, you should purchase fresh filets that are firm, light pink in color, and have smooth cuts. Avoid buying fishy smelling filets or steaks that indicate old cuts. Also, do not forget to ask the fishmonger to retain skin on the filets, so that they do not stick to the grill or break apart while cooking. If you are not cooking directly, keep filets in the refrigerator until you are ready to grill them. Mentioned below are some simple steps on cooking salmon on a gas grill with foil.

• The first step for grilling a salmon on a gas grill is to prepare the grill properly. If you have not used it for a long time, consider cleaning it first with a metal brush, and apply oil to reduce sticking. Then, preheat the gas grill at a high setting.
• As far as wrapping the rack with aluminum foil is concerned, it is optional for grilling salmon. However, if you are using foil, you do not need to oil the grill. Instead spray oil on the aluminum foil before you actually place filets over it.
• In the meantime, you can prepare salmon filets by brushing with your favorite dry rub or marinade. For any fish recipe, do not make the mistake of marinating pieces for a long time. Or else, the flesh will lose its firmness and flavor, which you do not want at any cost.
• The next step for grilling the salmon is estimating the correct cooking time according to the thickness of the filets. A half-inch thick filet requires 4 minutes grilling, i.e., 2 minutes per side. Likewise, determine salmon cooking time, and grill accordingly.
• As soon as the gas grill is ready, adjust it again to low heat setting. With the skin side up, place marinated salmon filets over the grill, and close the lid for cooking. Retain lid until one side of the filet is cooked properly.
• When the cut side is cooked for the estimated time (4 minutes for 1-inch thick filets), open lid and flip the filet carefully with a thin spatula. You should place the filet over the grill with the skin side down. If desired, rub the cooked side with olive oil or butter.
• Cover lid and cook the remaining side of the filet for the predicted time. Once the cooking time is reached, remove cooked salmon from the gas grill, and allow it to cool down slightly. This way, you can grill salmon by turning only once during cooking.
• Your grilled salmon recipe is done, when it flakes easily. To check, insert a metal skewer in the thickest part of the filets and pull a little. Well cooked filets appear opaque with a tender and flaky textured meat. Work with the spatula to separate the skin from the meat part.

Just keep in mind that while grilling a salmon on a gas grill, do not overcook the filets. Always remember that frequent turning will break apart the fish flesh. With practice, you can make grilled salmon like a professional chef. Each time, you can try different marinade or rub recipes to alter the flavor of your grilled salmon. Serve grilled salmon with a spicy sauce and boiled red potatoes for excellent taste.