Easy Grilled Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine succulent grilled salmon, its skin crispy and glistening like it just won a beauty pageant, paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes that are so fluffy they practically float off the plate. The aroma? Oh boy! It’s that intoxicating mix of smoky goodness from the grill and the comforting scent of garlic wafting through your kitchen, making it feel like home even if you’re still in your pajamas.

Let me take you back to a sunny Sunday afternoon when I first attempted this masterpiece. Armed with my trusty grilling tools and an eager spirit, I brought this dish to life for an impromptu family gathering. Let’s just say the only thing more satisfying than hearing the sizzle of the salmon was watching my aunt’s eyes widen as she took her first bite—it was pure joy on her face.

I remember one time when I made this dish; my brother-in-law declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I think he was just really hungry that day.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh fillets—look for vibrant color and no fishy smell for the best flavor.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and keeps the salmon moist.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic makes all the difference; choose firm cloves for maximum aroma.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet work well; pick firm ones without blemishes for creaminess.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; you can adjust salt levels in your dish easily.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper for best results.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors beautifully; don’t skip this!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering everything you need—salmon fillets, garlic, potatoes, butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice should be at hand.

Boil the Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot filled with salted water. Bring to a boil over medium heat until tender (about 15-20 minutes).

Mash Those Potatoes!: Once cooked, drain the potatoes well. Add butter and minced garlic while mashing until creamy—the aroma will be irresistible!

Season Your Salmon: While your potatoes cool slightly, brush your salmon fillets generously with olive oil. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Grill Like a Pro!: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Grill each side of the salmon for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Squeeze Lemon Joy!: As soon as you remove the salmon from the grill, drizzle fresh lemon juice over it—this adds zing that perfectly complements the richness of your meal.

Enjoy these simple steps as you create a delightful meal that will wow anyone at your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the salmon while boiling the potatoes; this saves time and enhances flavor. Grill the salmon skin-side down first to achieve that perfect crispy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add herbs like dill for extra flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest can elevate your garlic mashed potatoes to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture and avoid drying out the salmon.

The first time I made grilled salmon with garlic mashed potatoes, my friend exclaimed it was “restaurant-quality,” and I didn’t believe him until he asked for seconds!

FAQ

What type of salmon is best for grilling?

Wild-caught salmon tends to be more flavorful than farm-raised options.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely before marinating and grilling.

How do I make garlic mashed potatoes creamier?

Adding cream cheese or sour cream can enhance creaminess in your mashed potatoes.

Print

Grilled Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

---

• Author: Rachel Simmons
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in this flavorful grilled salmon paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions.

---

Ingredients

• Fresh salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
• Unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh lemon juice

---

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather salmon fillets, garlic, potatoes, butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Boil Potatoes: In a large pot of salted water, boil peeled and cubed potatoes until tender (15-20 minutes). Drain.
3. Mash Potatoes: Add butter and minced garlic to the drained potatoes; mash until creamy.
4. Season Salmon: Brush salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill Salmon: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Grill salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
6. Add Lemon: Drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over the grilled salmon before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet of salmon (150g) with 1 cup of mashed potatoes (200g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate the salmon in lemon juice and herbs before grilling. - Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.