The gas grill is not just for cooking hamburgers and hot dogs for the big game; step up your game by learning how to cook salmon on the grill.

Everyone loves to cook on a gas grill, and the more options you have for cooking outside means beating the heat of the kitchen inside.

How to Grill Salmon on a Gas Grill: Pick It Up

When shopping for salmon, be sure to select thick, head-end fillets; about a 1-inch thickness is perfect for the gas grill. Depending on the recipe you are using, you may want to buy fillets with the skin still on.

After you have cleaned the fish in cold water and patted dry, add the flavor combinations you like best: lemon juice and garlic, seafood rubs, or even mayonnaise and season salts. Let your prepared fillets sit for about 15-20 minutes to reach room temperature before placing them on the grill.

Salmon Grillin’ Set Up

The key to a successful grilling experience, especially when it comes to fish, is a clean grill. Using a wire brush, scrub off the remains of your last barbecue extravaganza and oil the rack; a light cooking spray applied over the grill will keep the salmon from sticking to the grill. Another trick is to use heavy-duty aluminum foil on the grill, either as a packet or like a cookie sheet; this is especially helpful if you are using skinless salmon fillets.

You should still coat the foil with oil, unless you are using a recipe that calls for coating the fillets in mayonnaise. Preheat the grill and turn the burners to a low setting.

BBQ’n that Salmon: Cookin’ It Up

It’s time to put the salmon on the grill. If you are using fillets with the skin still on, place the meat with the skins facing up. Close the lid of the grill, and let the fish cook for about 5 minutes; only open the lid when you are ready to flip the fish.

Then close the lid and cook for another 4-5 minutes. You know the salmon is ready when it is pink and flaky. If the skin is still intact, use a spatula to separate the fish from the skin. Then serve it up hot off the grill. Your family and friends will be amazed that you know how to cook salmon on the grill with all the expertise of a gourmet chef.

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