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
- Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
- Place the soaked napkins inside the Arteflame grill.
- Stack firewood over the napkins.
- Light the paper napkins and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches temperature.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
- Brush both sides of the salmon fillet with melted butter.
- Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Let the fillets sit at room temperature while the grill heats up.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
- Sear for about 1-2 minutes until the skin crisps up.
Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop
- Move the salmon fillet to the flat cooktop surrounding the grill grate.
- Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 125°F.
- Remove from grill and let the salmon rest. The temperature will rise another 10-15°F.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
- 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
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Garlic Butter Salmon: Add minced garlic to the butter before brushing onto the salmon for a rich, aromatic flavor.
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Spicy Mediterranean Salmon: Use smoked paprika and cumin for a spicy, earthy kick.
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Lemon Herb Salmon: Add fresh rosemary and zest half a lemon over the fillet for an extra citrus boost.
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Honey Glazed Salmon: Mix honey with butter before brushing onto the salmon for a slightly sweet caramelized crust.
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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.