If you are looking to impress at your next dinner or simply craving something fresh and flavorful, this Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe is an absolute must-try. The perfectly seasoned, smoky grilled salmon pairs beautifully with a vibrant, creamy avocado salsa that bursts with zesty lime and the subtle crunch of red onion. Every bite feels like a celebration of bright, bold flavors that come together effortlessly, making this dish a favorite to share with friends or savor on a relaxed night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, from the juicy salmon to the fresh cilantro and tangy lime juice. These essentials come together to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
- 2 lbs salmon fillets (skin on or off): Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best taste and texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and gives the salmon a beautiful char when grilled.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon and balances the spices.
- ½ tsp ancho chili powder: Adds subtle smoky warmth without overpowering the palette.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Provides an earthy depth that complements the chili powder perfectly.
- 1 tsp ground paprika: Gives a mild sweetness and rich color to the seasoning blend.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Boosts savoriness with a concentrated onion flavor.
- 1 tsp ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity to the rub.
- 1 avocado (cubed): The creamy heart of the salsa that pairs perfectly with the smoky salmon.
- ½ red onion (sliced or diced): Provides crunch and a touch of sharpness that cuts through the richness.
- 2 limes (juiced): Brightens and lifts every ingredient with fresh citrus zing.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a wonderful herbaceous note and freshness to the salsa.
How to Make Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the seasoning rub
Start by mixing kosher salt, ancho chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend encourages an exciting balance of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy notes that will infuse the salmon beautifully. Then, rub your salmon fillets generously with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and protect the fish while grilling.
Step 2: Season the salmon
Coat each fillet with your prepared spice mixture, ensuring every surface is covered. Don’t rush this step because the seasoning is what creates that irresistible crust when grilled. Once coated, pop the salmon in the fridge and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to soak in deeply.
Step 3: Prepare the avocado salsa
While the salmon marinates, toss together the cubed avocado, diced or sliced red onion, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. The lime not only brightens the salsa but also helps prevent the avocado from browning. Chill this mixture until you’re ready to serve, so it stays cool, fresh, and vibrant.
Step 4: Get the grill ready
Preheat your grill to medium heat around 350 to 375°F. A properly heated grill ensures the salmon cooks evenly and develops that signature grilled flavor and grill marks. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can work wonderfully here too.
Step 5: Grill the salmon
Place the salmon skin-side down if it has skin and grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You’re aiming for a nice char on the outside while keeping the flesh tender and moist inside. Resist the urge to move the salmon too soon to avoid sticking, and flip gently with a wide spatula.
Step 6: Serve with avocado salsa
Once your salmon is perfectly grilled, top each fillet generously with your chilled avocado salsa. The warmth of the fish contrasted with the cool, creamy salsa creates an amazing harmony of flavors that is utterly mouthwatering. It’s now time to dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take your dish from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle additional chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and a few lime wedges on the side to add a little extra zing when serving. A light drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up any salsa juices, roasted vegetables for a warm, earthy contrast, or a crisp green salad to keep things light and refreshing. Corn on the cob drizzled with lime butter is another fun and seasonal option.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, present the salmon fillets arranged on a large platter topped with avocado salsa and extra herbs. Alternatively, serve the grilled salmon on top of toasted ciabatta slices with salsa spooned over for a gourmet open-faced sandwich. For a casual lunch, stuff the salmon and salsa into warm tortillas with a handful of greens for a vibrant taco experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the grilled salmon and avocado salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the avocado from browning or becoming mushy. The salmon stays tasty for up to 2 days when properly refrigerated.
Freezing
Freezing grilled salmon is possible but not ideal with the avocado salsa due to its texture and freshness. If needed, freeze only the salmon in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat the salmon, use a low oven temperature or a gently heated skillet to avoid drying it out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish rubbery. Reheat the avocado salsa separately or serve it fresh to keep that creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it fully in the fridge before seasoning and grilling to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Is it necessary to marinate the salmon for 30 minutes?
While you can cook the salmon immediately after seasoning, marinating for 30 minutes lets the spices penetrate the fish, making each bite more flavorful and delicious.
Can I use another type of fish for this recipe?
Yes! Firm fish like mahi-mahi, swordfish, or tuna will work well on the grill with the avocado salsa.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork but still be moist inside. Typically, 3-4 minutes per side on medium heat does the trick depending on the thickness.
Can I prepare the avocado salsa the day before?
Yes, you can make it ahead, but to keep it fresh and prevent browning, prepare it no more than a few hours in advance and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a go-to for so many! It’s fresh, flavorful, and comes together quickly, perfect for any occasion. Whether grilling for family or entertaining friends, this dish brings a sense of celebration to the table. Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy an unforgettable meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Print
Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa recipe offers a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for a quick dinner. The salmon is seasoned with a smoky blend of spices, then grilled to perfection and topped with a fresh, tangy avocado salsa that complements the rich fish beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 lbs salmon fillets (skin on or off)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ancho chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
For the Avocado Salsa
- 1 avocado, cubed
- ½ red onion, sliced or diced
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, ancho chili powder, ground cumin, ground paprika, onion powder, and ground black pepper to create a flavorful spice blend.
- Season the salmon: Rub the salmon fillets evenly with olive oil, then coat them thoroughly with the prepared seasoning mix to ensure maximum flavor absorption.
- Marinate: Place the seasoned salmon in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the fish.
- Make the avocado salsa: In a separate bowl, combine the cubed avocado, sliced or diced red onion, freshly squeezed lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently and chill the salsa until ready to serve.
- Preheat the grill: Warm up your grill to a medium temperature, approximately 350-375°F, preparing it for cooking the salmon evenly.
- Grill the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish reaches your desired doneness, developing a nice char and remaining moist inside.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the grill, top each portion generously with the chilled avocado salsa, and enjoy a deliciously fresh and smoky meal.
Notes
- Marinating the salmon for longer, up to 1 hour, can enhance the flavor further.
- Use skin-on salmon for easier grilling and a crispier texture if preferred.
- The avocado salsa is best served fresh to maintain its vibrant color and texture.
- Adjust the seasoning quantities to your taste, especially the chili powder if you prefer less heat.
- If you do not have access to a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the salmon in an oven.
