Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon Recipe

Want to make Olive Garden-style Herb Grilled Salmon at home? I’ve got you!

Fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, and thyme, provide the best flavor for this dish. 

Using a cedar plank for grilling adds a subtle smoky aroma and can also help prevent sticking. Soak the plank in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

A fish spatula is an essential tool for flipping delicate salmon fillets on the grill without breaking them.   

Let’s get grilling this tasty salmon!

How to Make Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon

Ingredients

• 1 lb Salmon Fillets (with skin)
• 4 tsp Olive Oil (extra virgin)
• 2 Lemons
• 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper
• ½ cup Butter (unsalted)
• 1 Clove Garlic (minced)
• ¾ tsp Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting.

Brush the salmon fillets on both sides with olive oil.

Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2:

Slice the lemons and place half of them directly on the grill.

Lay the salmon fillets, skin side down, on top of the lemon slices.

Step 3:

Grill the salmon for about 6-8 minutes.

Flip the fillets and grill for another 2-4 minutes until cooked through.

Step 4:

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.

Add minced garlic and chopped parsley, stirring until combined.

Step 5:

Drizzle the garlic herb butter over the grilled salmon before serving.

The lemon slices can be used as a garnish.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Fresh Salmon

Always select the freshest salmon available to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Fresh salmon should have a bright, glistening appearance and a clean smell.

Avoid Overcooking

Keep a close watch on your grill time to prevent overcooking the salmon.

Overcooked salmon can lose its moisture and taste.

Experiment with Herbs

Feel free to experiment with different herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary can offer unique flavor profiles.

Use a Meat Thermometer

A meat thermometer can help achieve precise cooking without the guesswork.

Look for an internal temperature of 145°F for safely cooked salmon.

Rest before Serving

Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.

This helps the flavors meld together and ensures a juicer final dish.

Enjoy the rich taste of homemade herb grilled salmon!

What to Serve with Olive Garden Salmon Recipe

Classic Olive Garden Salad

You can’t go wrong with a classic Olive Garden salad.

It’s refreshing, light, and pairs beautifully with the herb-seasoned salmon.

Use fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, olives, and add plenty of the famous Italian dressing!

Steamed Broccoli

Steamed broccoli is an easy and nutritious side to accompany your salmon.

It adds a vibrant green to your plate and can be prepared in just a few minutes.

Season it with a hint of salt and olive oil for a simple yet delicious option.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

For those who enjoy a heartier side, garlic mashed potatoes are a fantastic choice.

Their creamy texture complements the flaky salmon perfectly.

Add a touch of butter and roasted garlic for an extra burst of flavor.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus adds a slightly smoky and savory taste to your meal.

Toss the spears in olive oil and grill them until tender for the best result.

It’s a quick option that still provides delightful flavor.

Mediterranean Couscous

Try pairing your salmon with Mediterranean couscous for an exciting twist.

It’s packed with flavors from ingredients like lemon, herbs, and vegetables.

The bright citrus notes blend well with the salmon’s herbs.

Mango Avocado Salsa

Add a bit of tropical flair with a mango avocado salsa.

Fresh mango, avocado, lime juice, and cilantro come together to create a vibrant side dish.

This fresh and zesty combination brings a fantastic contrast to the salmon’s rich flavors!

Variations and Substitutions

Fish Alternatives

You don’t always have to stick with salmon!

Consider swapping it with mahi-mahi or even a nice cut of hake for a thrilling new experience in texture and taste.

These substitutes absorb the herb flavors beautifully.

Herbs Galore

Experimenting with different herbs can add a fun twist to your dish.

Try using fresh cilantro, rosemary, or even robust oregano to bring new aromas to your kitchen!

Who’s to say you can’t have a little herb adventure?

Butter or Margarine?

If you don’t have butter handy, don’t worry!

Margarine can easily replace it, especially when making that divine herb butter for the fish.

Just mix it up and see how it blends with your chosen herbs.

Citrus Zest

Adding a bit of zest can really liven things up!

Feel free to introduce the bright flavors of lemon, lime, or even orange to the dish.

These zesty kicks complement the fish in a refreshing way.

Veggie Switch

Change things up from the usual side of broccoli.

Try pairing your dish with roasted green beans or Brussels sprouts for a textural contrast that’s full of yumminess.

These vibrant veggies make a delightful addition to the table.

How to Store Leftover Olive Garden Salmon Recipe

Storing your leftover Olive Garden salmon properly is key to preserving its delicious flavor for future meals.

First, allow the salmon to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Use Airtight Containers

It’s essential to use airtight containers to keep your salmon fresh and prevent any odors from mingling with other foods.

Place the cooled salmon into these containers, making sure the lid is sealed tightly.

For best results, always refrigerate within two hours of cooking.

Optimal Storage Location

I recommend placing the leftover salmon towards the back of your fridge where the temperature is most consistent.

This helps in maintaining the salmon’s texture and safety for consumption.

Avoid storing it near the door if you can, as temperatures there can fluctuate.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you won’t be eating the leftovers within a few days, freezing is a great option.

Wrap the salmon with plastic wrap first before putting it in a freezer bag to protect it from freezer burn.

Label the bag with the date to keep track of how long it’s been stored.

Following these steps will help you enjoy your salmon for up to three days in the fridge or up to a month in the freezer!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Salmon

It’s easy to end up with dry and tough salmon if cooked too long.

Focus on cooking it until it’s opaque in the center.

A careful watch over cooking time will keep your salmon juicy.

Neglecting to Season Well

Don’t skimp on seasonings!

A bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper make a big difference.

Explore adding herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Skipping the Thermometer

Use a cooking thermometer to find the perfect internal temperature.

145°F is recommended for safety, but try 125°F for a tender medium-rare texture.

A thermometer helps avoid guessing and leads to delicious results!