Olive Garden’s Herb Grilled Salmon Recipe

My family are confessed Olive Garden aficionados. From their endless breadsticks to the comforting pasta dishes, it’s our go-to for a casual Italian-American feast. But beyond the classics, there’s a hidden gem on their menu that consistently wins us over: the Herb Grilled Salmon. It’s light, flavorful, and feels surprisingly healthy amidst the creamy sauces and cheesy indulgences. We love it so much, we decided to try and bring that Olive Garden magic to our own backyard grill. After a few attempts and tweaks, we’ve nailed a version that’s not only incredibly close to the restaurant favorite, but also wonderfully simple to make. The aroma of herbs sizzling on the grill, the flaky, moist salmon infused with lemon and garlic – it’s a weeknight dinner that feels special without any fuss. This recipe is a game-changer for salmon lovers and anyone wanting to experience a taste of Olive Garden’s lighter side at home.

Ingredients

To capture the authentic Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon flavor, you’ll need a selection of fresh and pantry-staple ingredients. Prioritize freshness, especially with the herbs, as they are the stars of this dish.

• Salmon Fillets: 4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off, preferably center-cut for even cooking
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup, extra virgin olive oil, for marinating and grilling
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed, for brightness and flavor
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for aromatic depth
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped, Italian flat-leaf parsley preferred for its robust flavor
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped, adds a sweet and peppery note
• Fresh Oregano: 2 tablespoons, chopped, provides a slightly pungent and earthy flavor
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon, adds a subtle, earthy undertone that complements the other herbs
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste, sea salt or kosher salt recommended
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste, for a touch of spice
• Optional Garnish: Lemon wedges, fresh parsley sprigs, for serving

Ingredient Notes for Optimal Results:

• Salmon Selection: Look for salmon fillets that are vibrant in color and have a fresh, clean scent. Sockeye, Coho, or King salmon all work well. If using frozen salmon, ensure it is fully thawed before marinating. Center-cut fillets are ideal as they cook more evenly due to their consistent thickness. Skin-on fillets are great for grilling as the skin crisps up and helps protect the flesh from drying out, but skin-off works perfectly fine too, especially if you prefer a leaner dish.
• Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs are crucial for achieving the bright, aromatic flavor of Olive Garden’s salmon. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but the flavor will be less vibrant. If substituting dried herbs, use about 1/3 of the amount called for fresh (e.g., 1 tablespoon of dried parsley instead of ¼ cup fresh). However, for the best and most authentic taste, fresh is highly recommended.
• Olive Oil Quality: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor to the marinade. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste. It also helps to prevent the salmon from sticking to the grill grates.
• Lemon Juice Freshness: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is significantly brighter and more flavorful than bottled lemon juice. It’s worth the extra effort of squeezing a lemon yourself.
• Garlic Mincing: Mincing the garlic finely releases its flavor compounds effectively, infusing the marinade with its pungent aroma. You can use a garlic press or mince it by hand.
• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of the salmon and herbs. Adjust the salt and pepper to your personal preference. Kosher salt or sea salt are preferred for their cleaner taste compared to iodized table salt. Freshly ground black pepper offers a more robust flavor than pre-ground pepper.

Instructions

Grilling salmon to perfection is easier than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate Olive Garden’s Herb Grilled Salmon with restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the marinade. The marinade should be fragrant and vibrant with the aroma of fresh herbs and garlic.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon Fillets

1. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
2. Pour the herb marinade over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.
3. If using a dish, turn the fillets to coat both sides. If using a bag, seal the bag and gently massage the marinade into the salmon.
4. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Marinating for longer than 2 hours is generally not recommended for salmon as the lemon juice can start to break down the delicate flesh and make it mushy. However, even a short 30-minute marinade will significantly enhance the flavor of the salmon.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). For a gas grill, this usually means setting the burners to medium-high. For a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are glowing red and covered with a light layer of ash.
2. Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush to remove any debris from previous grilling sessions. This prevents sticking and ensures clean grill marks on the salmon.
3. Lightly oil the grill grates with olive oil or cooking spray. This is crucial to prevent the salmon from sticking and tearing during grilling. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to carefully oil the hot grates.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

1. Carefully remove the salmon fillets from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) or flesh-side down directly onto the preheated and oiled grill grates.
3. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets and the desired level of doneness. Avoid overcooking salmon as it can become dry.
4. To check for doneness, gently flake the salmon with a fork. The salmon is cooked through when it is opaque and flakes easily, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook it; slightly undercooked salmon is often more moist and flavorful.
5. If you prefer grill marks, avoid moving the salmon around too much during grilling. Let it sear undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop those beautiful grill marks.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Once the salmon is cooked through, carefully remove it from the grill using a spatula.
2. Transfer the grilled salmon fillets to serving plates.
3. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and fresh parsley sprigs, if desired.
4. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious Olive Garden-inspired Herb Grilled Salmon!

Tips for Perfect Grilled Salmon:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Grill the salmon fillets in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the grill. Overcrowding can lower the grill temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
• Use a Fish Spatula: A thin, flexible fish spatula is ideal for flipping and removing delicate salmon fillets without breaking them.
• Monitor the Heat: Keep a close eye on the grill temperature and adjust as needed to prevent burning or undercooking. If the salmon is browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
• Rest the Salmon (Optional): While not strictly necessary for grilled salmon, allowing it to rest for a minute or two after grilling can help the juices redistribute, resulting in slightly more tender and moist salmon.
• Grill Pan Option: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can also use a grill pan on your stovetop to achieve similar results. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions.

Nutrition Facts

This Herb Grilled Salmon recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy and nutritious meal option. Here’s a general estimate of the nutrition facts per serving. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Servings: 4

Estimated Nutrition Facts Per Serving (approximate):

• Calories: 350-450 kcal
• Protein: 35-45 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 10-15 grams
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 5-10 grams (including Omega-3 fatty acids)
• Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
• Sodium: 300-400 mg (can vary based on salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
  • Fiber: < 1 gram
  • Sugar: < 1 gram

Nutritional Highlights:

• Excellent Source of Protein: Salmon is a high-quality protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and promoting satiety.
• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
• Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Salmon is a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and potassium, among other essential nutrients.
• Relatively Low in Carbohydrates and Sugar: This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and sugar, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including low-carb and ketogenic diets.
• Healthy Fats: The fats in salmon are primarily healthy unsaturated fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for overall health.
• Fresh Herbs for Added Benefits: The fresh herbs in the marinade provide antioxidants and phytonutrients, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the dish.

Disclaimer: These nutrition facts are estimates and should be considered as a general guide. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

From prep to plate, this Herb Grilled Salmon recipe is surprisingly quick and efficient, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes chopping herbs, mincing garlic, and making the marinade)
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (minimum 30 minutes for flavor infusion, maximum 2 hours to prevent the salmon from becoming mushy)
• Cook Time: 8-12 minutes (4-6 minutes per side, depending on fillet thickness and grill temperature)
• Total Time (approximate): 53 minutes to 2 hours 27 minutes (depending on marinating time)

Time-Saving Tips:

• Pre-chopped Herbs: To save time, you can use pre-chopped fresh herbs available in some grocery stores. However, freshly chopped herbs generally offer a more vibrant flavor.
• Garlic Press: Using a garlic press can quickly mince garlic cloves, saving you time and effort.
• Marinate in the Morning: You can prepare the marinade and marinate the salmon in the morning or afternoon if you plan to grill it later in the day. Just ensure it’s refrigerated and doesn’t marinate for longer than 2 hours.
• Quick Side Dishes: Pair the grilled salmon with quick-cooking side dishes like a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or quinoa to keep the overall meal preparation time to a minimum.

How to Serve

Herb Grilled Salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Classic Side Dish Pairings:

• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes tossed with herbs and lemon zest provide a comforting and flavorful side that complements the salmon beautifully.
• Grilled Asparagus: Asparagus spears grilled alongside the salmon offer a healthy and slightly smoky vegetable side.
• Garlic Butter Green Beans: Green beans sautéed or steamed with garlic butter add a touch of richness and freshness.
• Caprese Salad: A refreshing Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a light and vibrant contrast to the grilled salmon.
• Quinoa or Couscous: Fluffy quinoa or couscous, seasoned with herbs and lemon, makes a healthy and satisfying grain side dish.

Sauce and Topping Ideas:

• Lemon Butter Sauce: A classic lemon butter sauce adds richness and tanginess that enhances the flavor of the salmon.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli provides a flavorful dipping sauce or topping for the salmon.
• Salsa Verde: A vibrant salsa verde made with fresh herbs, tomatillos, and onions adds a zesty and refreshing element.
• Pesto: A dollop of pesto (basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto) adds a burst of Italian flavor.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy tzatziki sauce (Greek yogurt-based cucumber and garlic sauce) offers a cool and refreshing contrast, especially during warmer months.

Presentation Tips:

• Lemon Wedges: Always serve grilled salmon with lemon wedges for squeezing fresh lemon juice over the fish just before eating.
• Fresh Herb Garnish: Garnish the serving plates with fresh parsley sprigs, basil leaves, or oregano sprigs to enhance the visual appeal and reinforce the herb flavors.
• Color Contrast: Arrange the salmon on plates with colorful side dishes to create an appealing and appetizing presentation. For example, bright green asparagus or vibrant red Caprese salad.
• Elegant Plating: For a more elegant presentation, consider plating the salmon on a bed of your chosen side dish, drizzling with a complementary sauce, and garnishing with fresh herbs.
• Family-Style Serving: For a more casual family-style meal, serve the grilled salmon on a platter alongside bowls of side dishes, allowing everyone to serve themselves.

Additional Tips for Herb Grilled Salmon Mastery

To consistently achieve perfectly grilled and flavorful Herb Grilled Salmon, consider these five additional tips:

1. Pat the Salmon Dry Before Marinating: Before applying the marinade, gently pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and allows the marinade to adhere better to the fish, resulting in more intense flavor infusion.
2. Don’t Over Marinate: While marinating enhances flavor, over-marinating salmon, especially in acidic marinades like this lemon-based one, can break down the delicate proteins and make the fish mushy. Stick to the recommended marinating time of 30 minutes to 2 hours.
3. Start Skin-Side Down for Crispy Skin (if using skin-on fillets): If you are using skin-on salmon fillets and desire crispy skin, start grilling them skin-side down. This allows the skin to crisp up nicely in the direct heat. Once the skin is crispy and releases easily from the grates, flip the salmon to cook the flesh side.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer for Accurate Doneness: The best way to ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection without overcooking is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. Salmon is optimally cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Let the Grill Recover Temperature Between Batches: If grilling multiple batches of salmon, allow the grill to recover its temperature between batches. Opening the grill lid releases heat, and it takes time for the grill to return to the desired temperature. Waiting for the grill to reheat ensures consistent cooking temperatures for each batch of salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are five frequently asked questions about making Herb Grilled Salmon, along with their answers, to help you troubleshoot and perfect your grilling experience.

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. However, it’s crucial to thaw it completely before marinating and grilling. Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick thaw method by placing the sealed frozen salmon in a cold water bath for about 30-60 minutes, changing the water every 30 minutes. Ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating for the best results.

Q2: I don’t have fresh herbs. Can I use dried herbs instead?

A: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for the most vibrant flavor, you can use dried herbs if fresh are not available. As a general rule, use about 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for ¼ cup of fresh parsley, use approximately 1 tablespoon of dried parsley. Keep in mind that the flavor of dried herbs will be less intense and nuanced than fresh herbs.

Q3: How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the grill?

A: Preventing salmon from sticking to the grill is key to grilling success. Here are a few tips:

• Clean Grill Grates: Ensure your grill grates are thoroughly cleaned before preheating.
• Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the hot grill grates with olive oil or cooking spray just before placing the salmon on the grill. Use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to carefully oil the hot grates.
• Don’t Move it Too Soon: Once you place the salmon on the grill, let it sear undisturbed for a few minutes before attempting to flip it. This allows a crust to form, which helps prevent sticking.
• Use Skin-On Fillets: If using skin-on salmon, grilling skin-side down initially can help prevent sticking as the skin is more robust and less likely to adhere to the grates than the delicate flesh.

Q4: How long will leftover grilled salmon last in the refrigerator?

A: Leftover grilled salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the salmon is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat leftover salmon gently in the oven, microwave, or skillet to avoid drying it out. Cold leftover salmon is also delicious in salads or salmon cakes.

Q5: Can I bake this Herb Grilled Salmon recipe instead of grilling?

A: Yes, you can bake this Herb Grilled Salmon recipe if you don’t have a grill or prefer baking. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. Baking will result in a slightly different texture compared to grilling, but it is still a delicious and convenient cooking method.

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