Herb-Grilled Salmon from Olive Garden features perfectly grilled salmon fillets seasoned with a blend of fresh herbs, served with a side of roasted vegetables, offering a flavorful and healthy seafood dish that's both tender and aromatic.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Fish spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk (for herb blend/oil)
- Basting brush
- Baking sheet (for vegetables)
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 zucchini
- 1 red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
Fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, rosemary, and thyme are essential for capturing the authentic flavor of Herb-Grilled Salmon from Olive Garden, so be sure to use fresh rather than dried for the best taste. Using fresh lemon zest and juice enhances the brightness and balances the richness of the salmon. Properly seasoning the salmon with salt and black pepper before grilling ensures the natural flavors stand out. Your choice of olive oil quality impacts the overall richness and aroma of the herb blend. The Herb-Grilled Salmon from Olive Garden copycat recipe delivers a tender, aromatic seafood dish paired with vibrant roasted vegetables that mirrors the restaurant's signature flavors.
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Chop red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion into bite-sized pieces; halve the cherry tomatoes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss chopped vegetables and cherry tomatoes with the oil mixture.
- Spread vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- In a bowl, combine remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, parsley, basil, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides of each salmon fillet with the herb-oil mixture using the basting brush.
- Place salmon fillets on the preheated grill, skin-side down (if skin-on).
- Grill salmon for 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and grill marks appear.
- Carefully remove salmon from grill using a fish spatula and tongs.
- Arrange roasted vegetables and grilled salmon on serving plates.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Herb-Grilled Salmon from Olive Garden copycat menu delivers a well-balanced combination of fresh herbs and tender salmon that you can easily recreate at home. If fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme are unavailable, dried versions can be substituted by using one-third of the fresh herb quantity to maintain the flavor intensity. When a grill or grill pan isn't accessible, broiling the salmon in the oven offers a similar seared effect, just monitor closely to prevent overcooking. Vegetables can be swapped based on availability; sturdy options like asparagus or green beans work well for roasting alongside the fish. For best results, use a fish spatula to handle delicate salmon fillets carefully during grilling.
Tips
Patting your salmon dry before applying the herb blend ensures better adherence and a crispier texture on the grill. Use a fish spatula to carefully flip the fillets to prevent them from breaking apart. Toss vegetables halfway through roasting for even caramelization, which enhances their natural sweetness. Remember to preheat your grill or grill pan thoroughly to achieve perfect grill marks and avoid sticking.
Nutritions
Herb-Grilled Salmon from Olive Garden provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. Your meal contains high-quality protein from salmon, complemented by an assortment of antioxidant-rich roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. The use of fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, rosemary, and thyme adds vitamins and phytochemicals while keeping sodium low without sacrificing flavor. Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, supporting overall cardiovascular wellness in this balanced and nutritious dish.
Storage
Store leftover Herb-Grilled Salmon and roasted vegetables in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Wrap the grilled salmon loosely in parchment paper before placing it in the container to help retain moisture and prevent it from drying out. When reheating, use a low heat setting or gently warm in an oven to preserve the tender texture and aromatic herbs.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh herbs with dried ones by reducing the quantity to about one-third to maintain flavor without overpowering the dish. Instead of grilling, baking the salmon at 400degF (200degC) for 12-15 minutes offers a hands-off cooking process while preserving moisture. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the herb-oil blend before brushing on the salmon. Consider swapping bell peppers with asparagus or green beans to vary the vegetable side depending on seasonal availability.
Allergies
The Herb-Grilled Salmon from Olive Garden contains salmon, which is a common allergen that may cause reactions in individuals with fish allergies. The dish also includes garlic and various fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, rosemary, and thyme, which could trigger sensitivities in some people. If you have any known allergies to seafood, herbs, or certain vegetables, it's important to check all ingredients carefully before enjoying this flavorful meal.
Why this recipe?
Herb-Grilled Salmon at Olive Garden features perfectly seasoned, tender salmon fillets grilled to lock in rich flavors, paired with fresh herbs that enhance the dish's natural taste. Many diners appreciate its healthy, flavorful profile combined with Olive Garden's signature Italian-inspired seasoning that balances zest and subtlety. Trying to make this copycat recipe allows you to recreate the restaurant's authentic experience at home, offering control over ingredients and portion size. Your effort to replicate this beloved dish makes for a delicious, nutritious meal that satisfies cravings without dining out.