Catch the aroma of fresh grilled salmon wafting through your kitchen as you imagine biting into its tender, flaky texture paired perfectly with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. This dynamic duo is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart.

Picture this: a summer evening barbecue where the sun sets in a blaze of colors while laughter fills the air. You’re at the grill flipping salmon fillets, feeling like a culinary rockstar while everyone eagerly awaits dinner. The flavors meld together in such harmony that even the pickiest eater can’t resist asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled salmon with garlic mashed potatoes combines effortless preparation with impressive flavor
- The dish looks stunning on any table and pleases both seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their delighted faces were priceless when they tasted it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for added flavor and moisture while grilling.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor; avoid pre-minced varieties for the best results.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning in your creamy mashed potatoes.
- Milk or Cream: Add milk or heavy cream to achieve a rich and smooth mashed potato consistency.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil enhances the salmon’s flavor before grilling.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and complements the salmon beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the salmon and mashed potatoes to perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare the Salmon Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This marinade will infuse incredible flavor into your salmon.
Marinate the Salmon: Place your salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak up those tasty flavors for about 30 minutes.
Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes: While the salmon marinates, peel and chop your potatoes. Boil them until fork-tender – around 15-20 minutes should do it.
Add Garlic to Potatoes: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter with minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. This step ensures your mashed potatoes have a lovely garlic essence.
Mash It Up!: Drain your boiled potatoes and return them to the pot. Add in butter-garlic mixture along with milk or cream. Mash until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
Grill Time!: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill marinated salmon fillets skin-side down for about 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Enjoy each step as you create this delightful meal that brings sunshine right onto your plate!
You Must Know
- Grilled salmon with garlic mashed potatoes is a delicious way to impress guests
- The creamy potatoes complement the flaky fish beautifully, creating an irresistible dish that’s both satisfying and elegant
- Don’t forget to season generously; it makes all the difference!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by marinating the salmon before boiling the potatoes. While the potatoes cook, grill the salmon for perfect timing and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap garlic with roasted shallots in the mashed potatoes for a sweeter touch. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley also make fantastic additions.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh salmon for better flavor; frozen can be watery and less tasty
- Make sure your grill is preheated; this prevents sticking and ensures a nice char
- Add a squeeze of lemon just before serving for a fresh pop!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a summer barbecue where friends raved about my grilled salmon. Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rock star!
FAQ
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! Trout or tilapia work well, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
What should I serve with grilled salmon and garlic mashed potatoes?

Grilled Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled salmon with garlic mashed potatoes is a flavorful dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with creamy, garlicky potatoes. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will impress your guests!
Ingredients
- Fresh salmon fillets (skin-on)
- Garlic
- Unsalted butter
- Milk or heavy cream
- Olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Marinate the salmon fillets in the mixture for 30 minutes.
- While the salmon marinates, peel and chop potatoes; boil until fork-tender (15-20 minutes).
- Melt butter with minced garlic in a saucepan over low heat until fragrant.
- Drain boiled potatoes, return them to the pot, and mix in the butter-garlic mixture and milk/cream. Mash until smooth; season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill marinated salmon skin-side down for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg