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Fresh Mediterranean Grilled Salmon Recipe With Easy Cucumber Salad for Perfect Summer Meal

fresh mediterranean grilled salmon - featured image

A quick and easy Mediterranean-inspired grilled salmon paired with a refreshing cucumber salad, perfect for light and satisfying summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin on
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large lemon, juiced + zest of half the lemon
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional garnishes: crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down in the bowl or a shallow dish, pouring the marinade over. Coat each fillet evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Cucumber Salad: Thinly slice the cucumbers and red onion. Place them in a bowl with chopped dill. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine and let sit at room temperature.
  4. Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan: Set to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). Oil the grates or pan lightly to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Salmon: Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving. Flip carefully and grill for another 3-4 minutes until opaque and flaky but moist inside.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove salmon from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Plate salmon alongside cucumber salad. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or crumbled feta.

Notes

Do not marinate salmon for more than 20 minutes to avoid ‘cooking’ the fish with acid. Use wild-caught salmon if possible for better flavor and texture. If grill is not available, use a cast-iron skillet or bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. For dairy-free option, omit feta cheese. Salad can be made a few hours ahead but keep refrigerated and toss before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon, Mediterranean salmon, cucumber salad, summer meal, healthy dinner, easy grilling, fresh herbs, lemon garlic marinade