If you’re looking to cook salmon that’s moist, flaky, and full of flavor, then using a Blackstone griddle is a great option. Blackstone griddles are a popular choice for outdoor cooking, thanks to their versatility and ability to cook food evenly. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cook salmon on a Blackstone griddle.
1. Preparing the Salmon
The key to cooking delicious salmon on a Blackstone griddle is to start with fresh, high-quality salmon. When selecting your salmon fillets, look for ones that are firm to the touch with a bright, vibrant color. If you’re unsure about how to clean and prepare your salmon, follow these steps:
- Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Remove any pin bones using a pair of fish pliers or tweezers.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning blend.
- Allow the salmon to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
2. Preparing the Blackstone Griddle
Before cooking your salmon, you’ll need to prepare your Blackstone griddle. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn on the Blackstone griddle and set it to medium-high heat.
- Allow the griddle to heat up for 5-10 minutes.
- Season the griddle with a light coating of oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Once the griddle is hot, use a paper towel or tongs to spread the oil evenly across the surface.
By properly preparing your salmon and Blackstone griddle, you’ll be well on your way to cooking restaurant-quality salmon in the comfort of your own backyard.
3. Cooking the Salmon
Now that you have your salmon fillets and Blackstone griddle ready to go, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook salmon on a Blackstone griddle:
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the griddle.
- Allow the salmon to cook for 4-6 minutes on medium-high heat until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the salmon fillets over using a spatula and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes on the other side.
- Check the internal temperature of the salmon using a meat thermometer. The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F to be considered fully cooked.
- Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the griddle and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
4. Serving Suggestions
Now that your salmon is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:
- Top the salmon with a squeeze of lemon juice or your favorite sauce, such as hollandaise, teriyaki, or dill sauce.
- Serve the salmon alongside some roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli.
- Pair the salmon with a side of rice pilaf or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
- For a lighter option, serve the salmon on a bed of mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing.
By following these tips and serving suggestions, you can elevate your salmon dish to the next level and impress your dinner guests. With a Blackstone griddle and some fresh salmon, you’ll be able to cook a delicious and healthy meal in no time.