Grilled Albanian Salmon with Crispy Skin

Introduction

Grill up a delicious and flavorful Albanian-style salmon right on your Arteflame grill! By searing the salmon fillet on the center grill grate at 1,000°F and then finishing it on the flat cooktop, you’ll achieve a perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy flesh. Infused with fresh Albanian herbs and grilled to perfection, this dish is easy, quick, and bursting with rich flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins inside the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the paper napkins and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches temperature.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

1. Brush both sides of the salmon fillet with melted butter.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Let the fillets sit at room temperature while the grill heats up.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

1. Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
2. Sear for about 1-2 minutes until the skin crisps up.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the salmon fillet to the flat cooktop surrounding the grill grate.
2. Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 125°F.
3. Remove from grill and let the salmon rest. The temperature will rise another 10-15°F.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Always use butter instead of olive oil for the best flavor when grilling.
• Let the salmon rest after removing from the grill for juicy, tender results.
• Use the outer edges of the flat cooktop for a slower, more delicate finish.

Variations

1. Garlic Butter Salmon: Add minced garlic to the butter before brushing onto the salmon for a rich, aromatic flavor.
2. Spicy Mediterranean Salmon: Use smoked paprika and cumin for a spicy, earthy kick.
3. Lemon Herb Salmon: Add fresh rosemary and zest half a lemon over the fillet for an extra citrus boost.
4. Honey Glazed Salmon: Mix honey with butter before brushing onto the salmon for a slightly sweet caramelized crust.
5. Smoky Cajun Salmon: Coat the fillet in Cajun seasoning for a bold and spicy twist.

Conclusion

Making this Albanian-style grilled salmon on the Arteflame grill ensures you get the perfect crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. With different heat zones and a solid steel cooktop, you can grill your entire meal at once with flawless results. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and experience the magic of open-fire cooking!

Best Pairings

• Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.
• A side of crispy roasted potatoes cooked on the flat top.
• A refreshing cucumber and yogurt salad for a light contrast.
• Warm pita bread brushed with butter and grilled for extra flavor.