Salmon Skewers Recipe

Gather ’round, because I’m about to unveil my go-to recipe for those sunny Sunday afternoons when the grill is calling and the fresh flavors of salmon and summer veggies are just too tempting to resist!

I love these salmon skewers for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and enhanced by the zing of lemon juice and zest, these skewers are a healthy delight.

The combination of olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce adds depth, while red onion and bell pepper provide vibrant color and crunch.

Salmon Skewers Recipe Ingredients

• Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high in protein, heart-healthy.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats, great for anti-inflammatory properties.
• Lemon Juice: Provides vitamin C, adds a tangy flavor, aids digestion.
• Garlic: Boosts immune system, adds aromatic and savory depth to dishes.
• Soy Sauce: Enhances umami flavor, a source of sodium for seasoning.
• Red Onion: Adds fiber and antioxidants, brings a subtle sweetness when grilled.
• Bell Pepper: High in vitamin C, low in calories, adds natural sweetness.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, excellent source of vitamin C and lycopene.

Salmon Skewers Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Wooden or metal skewers

How to Make this Salmon Skewers Recipe

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

2. Add the salmon cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

4. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

5. Thread the marinated salmon cubes, red onion wedges, bell pepper pieces, and cherry tomatoes alternately onto the skewers.

6. Lightly oil the grill grates or grill pan to prevent sticking.

7. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the salmon is opaque and cooked through and the vegetables are lightly charred.

8. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill.

9. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.

10. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Salmon Skewers Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowl
2. Measuring spoons
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Zester or grater (for lemon zest)
6. Garlic press or mincer (optional)
7. Skewers (wooden or metal)
8. Grill or grill pan
9. Tongs
10. Basting brush (optional, for oiling grill)
11. Plate or tray for prepared skewers

FAQ

• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly before marinating.
• How long should I marinate the salmon? For best results, marinate the salmon cubes for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
• What is the best way to cook the skewers? You can grill the skewers on a preheated grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until the salmon is cooked through.
• Can I substitute the bell pepper with another vegetable? Yes, you can use zucchini, mushrooms, or even asparagus as substitutes.
• Do I need to soak wooden skewers before using them? Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients to prevent them from burning.
• What is a good side dish to serve with these salmon skewers? Serve them with a light salad, rice pilaf, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Salmon Skewers Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For olive oil: Substitute with avocado oil or grape seed oil.
• For lemon juice: Use lime juice or white wine vinegar.
• For lemon zest: Replace with lime zest or orange zest.
• For red onion: Substitute with yellow onion or shallots.
• For smoked paprika: Use regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Pro Tips

1. Marinade Enhancement For even more flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade to balance the acidity and enhance caramelization during grilling.

2. Uniformly Sized Ingredients Cut the salmon, onion, and bell pepper into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overcooked.

3. Resting Time After removing the skewers from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the salmon moist and flavorful.

4. Grill Temperature Make sure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the skewers on it. This ensures a good sear on the salmon and vegetables, adding to the flavor and presentation.

5. Alternative Cooking Method If a grill is unavailable, consider broiling the skewers in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet lined with foil and broil on high heat, watching closely to prevent burning, until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are slightly charred.