20-Minute Keto Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter

Prep: 15 minCook: 10 min4 servingsmediumAmerican
Keto Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter

Perfectly grilled salmon fillets topped with a rich herb butter made from fresh dill, parsley, and garlic. The high heat creates crispy skin while keeping the fish tender and flaky inside. This protein-rich dish pairs beautifully with low-carb vegetables and makes an elegant weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. The compound butter can be made ahead and adds restaurant-quality flavor to this simple preparation.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 4 fillets salmon
    other fish fillets1:1pescatarianfish-free

    works with halibut, cod, or mahi-mahi

    Full guide →
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • salt
  • pepper
  • 1 lemon
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
    ghee1:1dairy-free

    clarified butter works well for grilling

    Full guide →
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat grill to medium-high heat

  2. 2

    Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush both sides with olive oil

  3. 3

    Season salmon with salt and pepper

  4. 4

    Mix softened butter with dill, parsley, minced garlic, and lemon zest in a small bowl

  5. 5

    Season herb butter with salt and pepper to taste and set aside

  6. 6

    Place salmon on hot grill skin-side down and grill for 5 minutes until skin crisps and releases easily

  7. 7

    Flip salmon and grill for additional 3-5 minutes until desired doneness is reached

  8. 8

    Remove salmon from grill and let rest for a couple minutes

  9. 9

    Serve each fillet with a generous dollop of herb butter melting on top

  10. 10

    Garnish with lemon slices and additional herbs if desired

Tips

Tip 1

Pat salmon completely dry before grilling to prevent sticking and ensure crispy skin

Tip 2

Let herb butter come to room temperature for easier mixing and spreading

Tip 3

Don't flip salmon until skin releases easily from grill grates

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate cooked salmon up to 3 days. Store herb butter covered up to 1 week in refrigerator or freeze up to 3 months.

Make Ahead

Herb butter can be made up to 3 days ahead. Let salmon come to room temperature 15 minutes before grilling.

Serve With

Serve immediately while herb butter is melting. Pairs well with grilled vegetables, cauliflower rice, or mixed greens.

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overcook salmon - it should flake easily but still be slightly translucent in center

Watch

Avoid moving salmon too early - let skin crisp before flipping

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

butter
ghee1:1dairy-free

clarified butter works well for grilling

Full guide →

General Alternatives

salmon
other fish fillets1:1pescatarianfish-free

works with halibut, cod, or mahi-mahi

Full guide →
fresh herbs
dried herbs3:1

use 2 tsp dried dill and 1 tsp dried parsley

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

How can I tell when salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The flesh should be opaque with just a hint of translucency in the center.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes, you can pan-sear the salmon in a hot skillet with oil for similar cooking times, or bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.

Can I freeze the herb butter?

Yes, roll herb butter in parchment paper and freeze up to 3 months. Slice portions as needed and let thaw slightly before serving.