You’d drool over this grilled salmon with honey lemon butter sauce
Wave farewell to uninspiring dinners and say hello to a recipe that’s going to change the way you grill! This Grilled Salmon with Honey Lemon Butter Sauce is everything you’ve ever wanted—crisp edges, a tender and flaky center, and a golden, mouthwatering sauce that brings it all together. Whether you’re seasoned on a grill or a fish novice, this recipe is so approachable that even your first-ever fish grilling will yield results worthy of a Michelin star.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try?
- Quick & Easy: No muss, no fuss, no mess—just deliciousness that takes under 30 minutes.
- Epic Flavor: There is a symphony of flavors created from the tangy sweetness of honey and lemon combined with the rich butter sauce.
- Restaurant Quality: Salmon grilled to perfection, does not stick, does not fall apart, just like the pros do it.
The Ingredients Breakdown (Because They All Matter!)
Each ingredient in this recipe serves its purpose to achieve that distinctive flavor. Here’s why:
- Salmon Filets: The pièce de résistance! Fresh ones with the skin on are better on the grill and provide the best flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Because even the finest salmon requires seasoning to truly shine.
- Butter: The silky base for that decadent sauce.
- Shallot (Minced): For a hint of sweetness and mild oniony flavor.
- Garlic (minced): Adds savory goodness to every sauce.
- Honey: Used for sweetness to balance the tangy notes.
- Chicken Stock: Provides depth and helps thin out the sauce to perfection.
- Lemon Juice: Adds that bright, fresh acidity to balance out the richness.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): for garnish and some fresh, earthy green notes.
There is no sincerer love than the love of food.Zoe Alexandra

Grilled Salmon Honey Lemon Butter Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Here are the steps to perfect grilled salmon every single time:
Preparing the Salmon:
- Begin with dry and clean salmon filets. Give them a pat with a paper towel to soak up excess moisture.
- Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Trust us—basic seasonings are all you need here.
Grilling the Salmon:
- Preheat your grill over high heat. The grates need to be ripping hot (think about the leather-clad conditions of a July heat wave—yes, that hot).
- Do not burn the grill grates; lightly oil them to prevent sticking. Put the salmon on the grill, skin side down.
- Leave it alone! Resist the urge to poke it. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, until crisp on the edges and firm and flaky on the flesh.
- Take out the salmon and set aside. Time to focus on the sauce!
Preparing the Honey Lemon Butter Sauce:
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in minced shallot and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add lemon juice and chicken stock. Allow the mixture to simmer until it is reduced by half (about 3 minutes).
- Slowly drizzle in honey, whisking to combine.
- Whisk in little pads of cold butter, one at a time, until the sauce has thickened slightly and has a glossy, velvety texture.
Bringing It All Together:
- Plate your beautiful piece of grilled salmon and drizzle that lovely sauce over it.
- Add chopped parsley on top for some color (if you want).
Serving Suggestions, Storage Suggestions, Tips, and Variations

Grilled Salmon Honey Lemon Butter Sauce
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Pairings: Serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that sauce.
- Fresh & Light: A side salad or roasted asparagus on the side makes it a balanced meal.
Pro Storage & Leftover Tips:
- Fridge: Store leftover salmon covered in an airtight container for 3 days max.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F or in a covered skillet over low heat. Do not use the microwave—it will dry it out.
- Freeze: You can freeze salmon, but if you prefer it fresh, freezing can compromise its texture.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice It Up: Add a shake of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild kick.
- Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter kick.
- Herb Lovers: Add thyme or dill for aromatics.
- Skinless Salmon? No problem. Simply oil the fish well before putting it on the grill.
FAQs
- Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
- Yes! Simply thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before grilling.
- I Don’t Own a Grill.
- A grill pan or sizzling hot cast iron skillet does wonders inside.
- Do I Have to Use Butter in the Sauce?
- To make it dairy-free, simply replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil. But it’s the butter that gives the sauce its velvety richness.
- How Can I Tell When My Salmon Is Cooked Through?
- The flesh should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
And voilà! With these steps, you’re about to elevate a regular dinner into an unforgettable memory. For guests, family, or just yourself, nobody will be disappointed!

Grilled Salmon Honey Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients
Ingredients for Grilled Salmon:
- 4 Salmon filets (skin-on for the best flavor)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Ingredients for Honey Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 Shallot, minced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- ¼ cup Chicken Stock
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 2 tablespoons Butter (cold, for whisking into the sauce)
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Get the salmon ready (dry, season).
- Also grill hot and fast (4-6 mins per side).
- Sauté shallots and garlic for the sauce, reduce lemon and stock, and whisk in honey and butter.
- Drizzle the salmon with sauce and serve hot.
Notes
- To make more sauce, double the ingredients.
- You’re going to want more for mopping!
- With the Full Burst of Flavors, Served.