Grilled Citrus-Herb Salmon with Avocado Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Salmon fillets marinated in a bright citrus and herb blend, grilled to perfection and topped with a creamy avocado salsa for a fresh summer dish. This mediterranean-inspired seafood ready in about 27 minutes blends (6 oz each) skin-on salmon fillets, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to create a marinade.
  2. Step 2: Place 4 (6 oz each) skin-on salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to let flavors infuse.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, combine 1 diced ripe avocado, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 small seeded and minced jalapeño, and 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro in a bowl. Gently toss and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove salmon from marinade and grill skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until crispy, then flip and grill for 3-4 minutes more until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Step 5: Serve each salmon fillet topped with a generous scoop of avocado salsa for a refreshing contrast.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Citrus-Herb Salmon with Avocado Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Citrus-Herb Salmon with Avocado Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Citrus-Herb Salmon with Avocado Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Citrus-Herb Salmon with Avocado Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled Citrus-Herb Salmon with Avocado Salsa?

Mediterranean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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