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Salmon Marinade

This salmon marinade is bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for moist and tender salmon every time!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Keyword: Easy, Marinade, Quick, Salmon
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound salmon either one side or four 6-ounce fillets
  • 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil rich base that keeps the salmon moist
  • 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce adds depth and umami flavor
  • 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard brings a tangy kick to the marinade
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds aromatic flavor
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper for a bit of heat and seasoning

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, low-sodium soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  • Place the salmon in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring it is evenly coated. If using a dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. If using a bag, seal it securely, pressing out as much air as possible.
  • Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for up to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish, enhancing its taste.
  • Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill or a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
  • Once cooked, remove the salmon from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Drizzle any leftover marinade (that hasn’t touched the raw salmon) over the top for an extra burst of flavor!

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Plastic bag or shallow dish
  • Oven or grill

Notes

  • Make the marinade ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days for convenience.
  • Marinate salmon up to 24 hours in advance for more intense flavor.
  • Use alternative oils and sauces like avocado oil or tamari if needed.
  • Cook salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
  • Leftover cooked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.