Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Imagine flaky, juicy salmon, bursting with smoky flavor, ready in under 30 minutes. Sounds dreamy, right? This isn't some restaurant-only fantasy; with your Traeger grill and this recipe, you can achieve perfectly smoked salmon every single time. This easy recipe is perfect for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and showcases the best of homemade cooking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Traeger
Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C). Use your favorite wood pellets – alder, apple, or cherry work wonderfully with salmon.
Step 2: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
Step 3: Smoke the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and let them smoke for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Cooking time will vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked through. Overcooked salmon is dry salmon, so it's crucial to monitor the temperature. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it's ready.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately with your favorite sides – a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or some creamy mashed potatoes all complement this smoky salmon beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Traeger Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the salmon fillets enough space to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection without overcooking.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require a longer cooking time.
- Experiment with flavors: Try different herbs and spices to create your signature smoked salmon recipe.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed Salmon: Brush the salmon with a maple syrup glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Lemon-Herb Salmon: Add lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the spice rub.
- Spicy Salmon: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per 6-ounce fillet, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
This easy Traeger salmon recipe delivers a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. The smoky flavor and tender texture will become a new family favorite. Enjoy!