Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant and flavorful BBQ salmon skewers recipe? This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue. These skewers are bursting with smoky BBQ flavor and juicy salmon, making them a crowd-pleaser for everyone, from seasoned cooks to complete beginners. Get ready for a taste of summer that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 12 wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
- Optional: bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), zucchini, cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor
Instructions:
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Prepare the Salmon: In a medium bowl, gently combine the salmon cubes, BBQ sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece of salmon is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
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Assemble the Skewers: Carefully thread the salmon cubes onto the prepared skewers. If using additional vegetables, alternate them with the salmon for a visually appealing and flavorful skewer.
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Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking.
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Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect BBQ Salmon Skewers:
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Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Cook it until it's just cooked through, and it flakes easily with a fork. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the salmon should read 145°F (63°C).
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Soak your skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
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Don't overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding the grill will lower the temperature and lead to unevenly cooked skewers. Cook in batches if necessary.
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Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or use a different type of BBQ sauce for a unique flavor profile.
Delicious Variations:
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Spicy Salmon Skewers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
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Mediterranean Salmon Skewers: Marinate the salmon in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic. Add cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives to the skewers.
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Teriyaki Salmon Skewers: Use teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
These BBQ salmon skewers are a fantastic healthy meal option, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. They're also an excellent choice for summer barbecues, impressing your family and friends with minimal effort. Enjoy this delicious and versatile recipe!