She Strengthens

Spice Up Your Grilled Salmon with a Zesty Twist

When it comes to a quick and healthy dinner, grilled salmon is a top contender. This mouthwatering recipe takes it to the next level with a flavorful marinade featuring chili powder, garlic, lime, and olive oil. To complete the dish, a tangy sauce made with Mexican crema, cilantro, green onions, and lime juice adds a burst of freshness.

Choosing the Right Salmon

Before you start cooking, make sure you’re using high-quality salmon. Opt for wild or sustainably farmed options, and consult the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch for recommendations. You can also explore different types of salmon to find your favorite.

Prep Time: 20 Minutes, Cook Time: 25 Minutes, Total Time: 45 Minutes

* Servings: 4*

Easy Does It

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, requiring only 20 minutes of active cooking time. The marinade does the heavy lifting, infusing the salmon with bold flavors in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

For the fish:

• 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 oz each), pin bones removed
• Kosher salt
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp freshly squeezed lime juice

For the sauce:

• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
• Finely grated zest and juice from 1 medium lime
• Kosher salt, to taste

Grilling to Perfection

Dry the salmon fillets with paper towels and season with salt. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, garlic, olive oil, and lime juice to create a paste. Spread the paste evenly over the salmon fillets and set aside for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by stirring together the cilantro, green onions, crema, lime zest and juice, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Heat a large nonstick or well-seasoned grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the surface with vegetable oil and add the salmon fillets skin-side down. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the skin is crisp, about 6 minutes. Flip the salmon and cook on the flesh side until done to your liking.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the grilled salmon to a warmed serving platter, cover loosely with aluminum foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve with the tangy sauce and your choice of sides, such as rice pilaf or sautéed zucchini.