Grilled Salmon Lemon & Herb from Maggiano's Little Italy features tender salmon fillets marinated with fresh lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and garlic, grilled to perfection with a golden crust and served with vibrant, zesty flavors.
Equipments
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Grill brush
- Tongs
- Fish spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Zester or microplane
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt
- Black pepper
Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and thyme are essential for capturing the authentic flavor profile of Grilled Salmon Lemon & Herb. Using fresh lemon juice and zest enhances the dish's vibrant citrus notes and ensures brightness in every bite. Mince garlic finely to blend seamlessly into the marinade, avoiding any overpowering chunks. Proper seasoning with salt and black pepper is key to balancing the herbs and enhancing the natural taste of the salmon. Your efforts will help you closely replicate the delicious Grilled Salmon Lemon & Herb from Maggiano's Little Italy copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Clean the grill grates with a grill brush.
- Zest and juice the lemon.
- Chop the parsley, basil, and thyme.
- Mince the garlic.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, basil, thyme, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets on a cutting board.
- Brush marinade over both sides of each salmon fillet.
- Let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Oil the grill grates lightly if desired.
- Place salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down (if skin-on).
- Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping gently with a fish spatula.
- Grill until salmon develops a golden crust and is cooked through.
- Remove salmon from grill and transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired.
Substitution
Grilled Salmon Lemon & Herb from Maggiano's Little Italy copycat menu offers a flavorful dish highlighting the freshness of lemon and herbs paired with perfectly grilled salmon fillets. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used by reducing the quantity by half to avoid overpowering the dish. When a grill is not accessible, a grill pan or broiler can achieve a similar char and texture, while ensuring you monitor the cooking closely to prevent burning. You can substitute lemon zest and juice with lime for a different but equally vibrant citrus flavor. Always pat the salmon dry before marinating to ensure the marinade adheres well and creates a crisp crust during grilling.
Tips
Ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high to achieve that ideal golden crust without overcooking the salmon. Use a fish spatula for gentle flipping to prevent the fillets from breaking apart on the grill. Letting the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes allows the lemon and herbs to infuse deep flavor but avoid marinating longer than an hour to keep the fish texture intact. Always clean the grill grates with a grill brush before cooking to prevent sticking and charred residue that can affect your dish's taste.
Nutritions
Grilled Salmon Lemon & Herb from Maggiano's Little Italy is rich in high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. The fresh lemon juice and herbs such as parsley, basil, and thyme provide antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C, enhancing the dish's nutritional profile. Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats that promote good cholesterol levels. You benefit from a well-balanced meal that combines lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense herbs to support overall wellness.
Storage
Store leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Your salmon fillets will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before sealing in the container. For longer storage, freeze the salmon in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and consume within 2 months for optimal taste and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh dill or cilantro for the parsley and basil to give the salmon a different herbal aroma. Instead of grilling, try baking the salmon at 400degF for 12-15 minutes, which keeps the fish moist while achieving a tender texture. To boost flavor, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a splash of white wine to the marinade. Using a cedar plank on the grill can infuse a smoky, woodsy essence to your salmon, enhancing its natural taste.
Allergies
The Grilled Salmon Lemon & Herb from Maggiano's Little Italy contains fish, a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. You should also be aware that garlic and fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, and thyme might trigger allergies in some people. It's important to check with the restaurant if cross-contamination with other allergens is a concern for your dietary needs.
Why this recipe?
Maggiano's Little Italy's Grilled Salmon Lemon & Herb menu is favored for its perfectly grilled salmon, balanced with zesty lemon and fresh herbs that enhance the natural flavor of the fish. The combination creates a light yet flavorful dish that appeals to health-conscious diners seeking a gourmet experience. You can recreate this dish at home to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal that's both nutritious and satisfying. Its unique blend of citrus and herbs offers a refreshing twist that makes it worth trying your own version.