Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon
The Day I Fell in Love with Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon
Some recipes have a way of sneaking up on your heart—and for me, the Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon was exactly that. Years ago, during one of those cozy, laughter-filled dinners out with friends, I tried this dish for the very first time. The salmon arrived at our table glistening with a fragrant herb crust, lemons tucked invitingly on the side. I remember taking that first flaky bite, the charred edges fragrant with Italian seasoning, the fresh pop of lemon—suddenly, I wasn’t just in a restaurant. I was in someone’s backyard, sharing a meal alive with warmth and effortless simplicity. That night cemented my love for homemade herb grilled salmon, and ever since, it’s been my go-to meal for weeknights and special gatherings alike.
Why You’ll Adore This Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon
Let me just say it: this is so much more than just a healthy grilled fish recipe.
- Weeknight magic: With just a handful of pantry staples and under 20 minutes from start to finish, this Olive Garden salmon recipe is my absolute lifesaver for nourishing, satisfying meals when I’m juggling busy evenings.
- Better than takeout: The Italian seasoning and fresh garlic create an herby crust that’s so reminiscent of the classic Olive Garden salmon, but dare I say, it’s even better straight off your own grill?
- Family/guest favorite: Whether it’s just my husband and me, or the entire family around the table, this easy herb grilled salmon always gets rave reviews—and not a crumb left behind!
- Guilt-free indulgence: It’s protein-packed and naturally low-carb. I can serve this herby, juicy salmon and genuinely feel good about what we’re enjoying.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon
You’ll only need a few simple, wholesome ingredients to recreate this iconic dish at home:
- 4 salmon fillets: I look for wild-caught salmon whenever possible—it tends to have a richer flavor and those gorgeous orange-pink streaks. Fresh or thawed fillets work best!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil gives a luxuriously smooth finish and helps those herbs stick beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Don’t skimp! A truly aromatic blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary really makes this a classic “herb grilled salmon.”
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Freshly minced garlic is best, but pre-minced works in a pinch (and adds savory depth to every bite).
- Salt and pepper to taste: Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper wake up all the flavors.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Don’t skip the lemon! Its zingy brightness brings the whole dish together.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Perfect Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon
Here’s how I walk through this easy salmon recipe, every single time:
- Get the grill going: Preheat your grill to medium heat. (If it’s rainy, a grill pan indoors totally works.)
- Mix up the flavor magic: In a small bowl, whisk together your olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. It’ll smell amazing already!
- Brush on the goodness: Grab a basting brush, and generously slather both sides of each salmon fillet with that herby oil mixture. Don’t be shy—this brings out big flavor!
- Grill time: Lay the salmon skin-side down on the hot grill. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, until those signature grill marks appear and the fish lifts easily.
- Flip with confidence: Gently flip (using a fish spatula helps) and cook another 3-5 minutes. The salmon should flake easily and look just opaque in the center.
- Serve up sunshine: Remove right away, finish with a big squeeze of fresh lemon, and sprinkle a little more Italian seasoning if you like.
And there you have it—an Olive Garden-inspired herb grilled salmon that’s as beautiful as a restaurant meal, but simple enough for Tuesday night dinner.
My Secret Tips and Tricks for Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon Success
After grilling dozens of batches (for date nights, soccer-fueled weeknights, and everything in between), these little nuggets of wisdom have saved the day:
- Dry the fish first: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. It helps the olive oil and Italian seasoning cling and makes for a crispier crust.
- Let it sit: Once you’ve brushed on the herb mixture, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before grilling. (This amps up that herb flavor we all love.)
- Skin-on = safety net: The skin protects the delicate fish from sticking to your grill—plus, it’s deliciously crispy!
- Don’t overcook: The most common grilled salmon mistake! It’s done when it’s just opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Residual heat finishes the job after it’s off the grill.
- Love your lemons: Zest a little lemon right over the top for an extra pop—or serve fresh wedges at the table (that’s the Olive Garden way).
Creative Variations and Ingredient Swaps
It’s always fun to put your own twist on classic restaurant grilled salmon. Here are my favorites:
- Change up the herbs: Swap the Italian seasoning for fresh chopped dill, parsley, or even basil from your garden.
- Make it dairy-free: This recipe is already gluten-free and dairy-free—which is fantastic for families with allergy concerns.
- Add a citrus kick: Try orange or lime wedges instead of lemon for a new citrus profile.
- Go Mediterranean: Top your salmon with sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or serve on a bed of spinach.
- Try foil packet grilling: Wrap your salmon with the olive oil herb mixture in foil packets—easy clean-up and always juicy!
How to Serve and Store Your Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon
There’s no wrong way to serve this easy herb grilled salmon! Here’s how I make it shine:
- Pair with sides: I love it with garlicky sautéed green beans, mashed potatoes, or a simple Caesar salad. The flavors mimic the Olive Garden experience!
- Make it a meal prep hero: Leftovers? Store salmon fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days (they’re great cold, over salad, or tucked in wraps!).
- Reheat gently: Warm gently in a skillet or the microwave at 50% power so the salmon stays moist and tender.
- Freeze for later: Place cooked, cooled salmon fillets in freezer-safe bags (squeeze the air out!) and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs: Your Top Questions About Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon Answered
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Totally! Place the herb-brushed salmon fillets on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness. You’ll still get those Olive Garden salmon vibes (with less mess!).
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yep! Just thaw fully and pat dry before brushing on the olive oil herb mixture. Dry salmon means more even grilling and better seasoning coverage.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries—mix together equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Throw in a pinch of rosemary if you’ve got it!
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
It should turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. I like to use a digital thermometer for perfect results: 125–130°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for well done.
What’s the best way to avoid dry salmon?
Don’t overcook, and make sure you’re using enough olive oil in your herb mixture—it locks in moisture so you get that irresistibly juicy herb grilled salmon every time.
Whether it’s a quiet dinner or a festive gathering, this Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon feels like a celebration—simple, beautiful, and bursting with herby goodness. If you give it a try, please let me know how it goes. I love hearing about your kitchen adventures (successes and hilarious mishaps both welcome!). Happy grilling, friends!
Herb Grilled Salmon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon fillets Look for wild-caught salmon for richer flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Use good quality extra virgin olive oil.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning An aromatic blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced is best.
- to taste salt and pepper Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- for serving lemon wedges Essential for brightness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of each salmon fillet with the herb oil mixture.
Grilling
- Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes.
- Gently flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes until flaky and opaque.
Serving
- Remove from the grill, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon, and sprinkle with additional Italian seasoning if desired.
