Italian-Style Herb Grilled Salmon

This Italian-style herb grilled salmon features juicy, tender fillets perfectly seared with a fragrant blend of garlic and classic Italian herbs. This copycat Olive Garden-inspired dish comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients and pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed red potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and Parmesan garlic broccoli—making it a wholesome and flavorful dinner option, much like my popular Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp recipe. Give it a try tonight!

Why This Recipe Works
The salmon achieves a beautifully crisp exterior while remaining moist and flaky inside. Searing the fish in a hot skillet ensures a delightfully crunchy skin. If you’re craving a smoky, charred flavor, try my Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon recipe. This straightforward dish is ready in about 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, similar to my quick Broiled Tilapia.

Ingredients Notes

• Salmon: Use Atlantic or wild-caught salmon with skin on for best results.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred; if you use salted, reduce the added salt in the herb butter.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide the best flavor.
• Italian seasoning: Dried Italian herbs work well for a balanced seasoning.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the overall flavor.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herbaceous note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the herb butter and mix thoroughly.
2. Spoon the garlic herb butter onto a sheet of plastic wrap.
3. Roll the butter into a log shape using the plastic wrap and chill until firm.
4. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, then lightly brush with olive oil and season to taste.
5. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and place the salmon fillets skin-side up.
6. Carefully flip the fillets once the skin crisps and cook through. Top each piece with a slice of the chilled lemon garlic butter and serve alongside lemon wedges.

Recipe Tips

• A cast iron or stainless steel skillet works best for even heat and crisp skin. Nonstick pans can be used but typically don’t achieve the same level of crispiness.
• Use a fish spatula to gently flip the salmon without breaking it apart; it’s also handy for recipes like Southern Hoe Cakes, One Pot Green Beans, and Potatoes.
• Avoid moving the salmon too soon after placing it in the hot pan to allow the skin to develop that perfect crisp texture.