Best Grilled Salmon Recipe: Sockeye Salmon with Orange Ginger Butter

by Oleg Nikitenko January 18, 2025

Why Sockeye Salmon is Perfect for Grilling

When it comes to grilling salmon, not all varieties are created equal. Sockeye Salmon, known for its deep red color and bold flavor, is the ultimate choice. Its firm texture holds up well to grilling, making it ideal for various cooking methods, including foil baking and direct grilling.

“Sockeye Salmon’s vibrant flavor and robust texture make it the crown jewel of wild-caught salmon.” – Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch.

Key Benefits of Choosing Sockeye Salmon:

Rich Flavor: Sockeye’s naturally bold taste pairs beautifully with citrus and spice marinades.
Firm Texture: Holds together during grilling, ensuring a perfect presentation.
Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and high-quality protein.

For premium quality, try sustainably sourced Sockeye Salmon Fillets .

How to Grill Sockeye Salmon Like a Pro

Essential Grilling Tips:

Grill Temp: Preheat your grill to 375°F for even cooking.
Oil the Grates: Prevent sticking by brushing the grates with oil or using non-stick cooking spray.
Use Foil for Delicate Fillets: If grilling without skin, consider using foil for support.

Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions:

Preparation: Remove the salmon from the refrigerator 15 minutes before grilling to allow even cooking.
Seasoning: Lightly season the fillets with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil.
Grill Time: Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill or foil. Cook for 10–13 minutes, depending on thickness, until the center is just translucent.
Resting: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after removing it from the grill to lock in the juices.

The Secret Weapon: Orange Ginger Compound Butter

Why Compound Butter Enhances Grilled Salmon

The zesty sweetness of orange combined with the warm spice of ginger elevates the rich, buttery flavor of Sockeye Salmon. Compound butter adds a luxurious finish while keeping the fish moist.

Pro Tip: Prepare the compound butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Compound Butter Recipe:

8 tablespoons salted butter, softened
1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
¼ teaspoon salt
2 green onions, finely chopped

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Foil-Baked Salmon: An Easy Grilling Alternative

Foil baking locks in moisture and prevents the salmon from drying out. This method is especially useful for beginners.

How to Grill Salmon in Foil:

Lay heavy-duty aluminum foil on a baking sheet, shiny side down. Spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Place the seasoned salmon skin-side down on the foil. Fold the edges of the foil to create a shallow pan.
Add a tablespoon of orange ginger compound butter on top of the fillet before sealing the foil.
Grill for 10–13 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

For more tips, explore How to Grill Salmon .

Copper River Sockeye: The King of Grilled Salmon

When it comes to the finest salmon, Copper River Sockeye stands out for its unmatched quality and flavor. Caught in the glacial-fed waters of Alaska’s Copper River, this salmon is renowned for its high omega-3 content and firm, vibrant flesh.

“Copper River Sockeye Salmon is nature’s perfect fish. Its flavor, texture, and health benefits are second to none.” – Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute.

Check out premium options like Copper River King Salmon for your next grilling adventure.

Grilled Salmon Nutrition Facts

Sockeye Salmon is more than delicious; it’s also incredibly healthy.

Nutritional Benefits (Per 3oz Serving):

Calories: ~180
Protein: 23g
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Over 1,000mg
Vitamin D: 100% Daily Value

For more health benefits, read about Salmon Nutrition .

FAQs About Grilling Sockeye Salmon

Q: How long should I grill salmon?
A: Grill salmon for 10–13 minutes, depending on thickness. Use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F.

Q: Should I grill salmon with the skin on?
A: Yes, grilling with the skin helps retain moisture and prevents sticking.

Q: Can I use other salmon types for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Sockeye shines, King or Coho Salmon also work beautifully.

Recipe: Grilled Sockeye Salmon with Orange Ginger Compound Butter

Ingredients:

1½ pounds Sockeye Salmon fillets
Prepared orange ginger compound butter
Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Butter: Blend all compound butter ingredients and refrigerate.
Season the Salmon: Place fillets skin-side down on foil. Season with salt and pepper.
Grill: Cook on a preheated grill for 10–13 minutes.
Finish with Butter: Top each fillet with a tablespoon of compound butter before serving.

Where to Buy the Best Sockeye Salmon

Finding top-quality Sockeye Salmon is easy with online retailers like Global Seafoods. Their fish are flash-frozen to preserve flavor and nutrients, ensuring restaurant-quality meals at home.

Shop Now:

Conclusion: Elevate Your Grilling Game

Grilled Sockeye Salmon with Orange Ginger Compound Butter is a showstopper that combines gourmet flavors with straightforward preparation. Whether hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t forget to explore:

Your perfect salmon dinner is just a grill away! 🌟