Garlic Butter Salmon Skewers

Did you know that salmon is one of the most popular fish worldwide, with global consumption doubling in the past two decades? Yet, many home cooks shy away from grilling salmon, fearing it will stick or dry out. Enter garlic butter salmon skewers—a game-changing recipe that’s not only easy to master but also delivers succulent, smoky, and flavor-packed results every time. This dish combines the heart-healthy benefits of wild-caught salmon with a garlicky, buttery marinade that turns every bite into an indulgence.

Garlic butter salmon skewers are perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or impressive party platters. With minimal prep and a fast cook time, they’re a go-to choice for anyone seeking a fresh and nutritious meal that feels like a restaurant-quality treat. Let’s dive into the secrets behind making the best garlic butter salmon skewers.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to bring these garlic butter salmon skewers to life:

• 1½ pounds skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 small red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
• Optional: 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Substitution Suggestions:

• Use olive oil or ghee in place of butter for dairy-free
• Try cod or shrimp instead of salmon for variation
• Add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for extra color and texture

These ingredients combine to create juicy, flavorful skewers with a garlicky richness and a burst of citrus.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Salmon and Veggies

Pat your salmon dry and cut it into even cubes for uniform cooking. Chop the bell pepper, onion, and any other vegetables you want to include.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The smell alone will make you hungry!

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Add the salmon cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat. For maximum flavor, let the salmon marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes. (If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.)

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the salmon cubes, bell peppers, onion, and any optional veggies onto skewers, alternating for a colorful presentation. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high and oil the grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the salmon is opaque and lightly charred on the edges.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Transfer the skewers to a platter, squeeze fresh lemon over the top, and garnish with extra parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 340 per serving
• Protein: 27g
• Total Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Omega-3s: 1.7g

Salmon is rich in protein, heart-healthy omega-3s, and essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce salt and use unsalted butter.
• Low-Carb: Omit starchy vegetables and load up on peppers and zucchini.
• Keto: Serve skewers over a bed of leafy greens or cauliflower rice.

This recipe’s flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple quinoa or couscous salad.
• Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Add a side of grilled asparagus, corn, or Mediterranean-style cucumber salad.
• Top with extra lemon zest or a drizzle of garlic butter right before serving.
• For a party platter, serve with tzatziki, dill yogurt sauce, or spicy aioli for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon cooks fast—remove it from the grill as soon as it’s opaque in the center.
2. Uneven Cubes: Cut salmon and veggies to similar sizes for even grilling.
3. Skipping the Marinating: Even 10-15 minutes of marinating deepens flavor and keeps salmon juicy.
4. Sticking Skewers: Oil the grill and soak wood skewers to prevent sticking and burning.
5. Overcrowding the Grill: Give each skewer space for the best char and texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave just until warmed through.
• Make Ahead: Prep the marinade, salmon, and veggies up to a day ahead and assemble skewers right before grilling.
• Freezing: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze uncooked, marinated salmon cubes for up to 1 month.

Conclusion

Garlic butter salmon skewers are a quick, flavor-packed, and visually stunning meal that’s sure to become a summer staple. With vibrant vegetables, juicy salmon, and an irresistible garlic butter marinade, this recipe is as easy as it is impressive.

Give these garlic butter salmon skewers a try and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious, healthy recipes and grilling tips.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway.

Which vegetables work best for skewers?
Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are all great choices.

Do I need to remove the skin from the salmon?
Skinless salmon is easier for skewers, but you can use skin-on and remove it after cooking if you prefer.