Cooking salmon on a Traeger grill is one of the best ways to infuse this delicious fish with a smoky, wood-fired flavor while ensuring it stays tender and juicy. Whether new to grilling or a seasoned pro, the Traeger makes it easy to achieve perfectly cooked salmon every time. In this guide, we’ll explore how to prepare a tasty salmon recipe on your Traeger, combining simple ingredients with smoky goodness to create a mouthwatering dish your family and friends will love.
Why Cook Salmon on a Traeger?
The beauty of using a Traeger grill lies in the flavor it imparts. Unlike traditional grills that rely on gas or charcoal, a Traeger uses wood pellets, allowing the fish to absorb a rich, smoky taste that perfectly complements the natural flavors of salmon. Additionally, the consistent temperature control of a Traeger ensures that your fish cooks evenly without drying out, which can be tricky on other grills.
The process is simple, and the result is restaurant-quality salmon that you can make right at home. Whether serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, this smoky salmon recipe will become a staple in your grilling rotation.
Ingredients for the Perfect Smoked Salmon
You’ll need a few essential ingredients to achieve that signature smoky flavor and perfectly flaky texture. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—quality salmon, a few seasonings, and the Traeger do all the work.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of salmon fillets, skin on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish
- Wood pellets (preferably alder, cherry, or apple for a delicate smoke flavor)
Preparing Your Salmon
Before you get the salmon on the Grill, a few key steps ensure you get the best results:
- Preheat the Traeger: Set it to 225°F and let it preheat for 10-15 minutes. While it heats up, you can prep the salmon.
- Season the Salmon: Start by brushing the salmon fillets with olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the Grill and to help the seasonings adhere. Then, sprinkle garlic powder, fresh dill, salt, and black pepper over the fillets. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top adds a bright, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the Grill.
- Optional Brine for Extra Flavor: You can brine the salmon before grilling for an even richer flavor. Mix water, salt, and some sugar, then submerge the salmon in this solution for about an hour before grilling. This step is optional but helps keep the salmon extra moist and flavorful.
Grilling the Salmon on Your Traeger
It’s time to start cooking once your salmon is seasoned and the Traeger is preheated.
- Place the Salmon on the Grill: Put the salmon fillets skin-side down directly on the grill grates. This will help protect the delicate flesh from overcooking and allow the smoky flavors to penetrate the fish. Close the lid to trap in all that delicious smoke.
- Smoke the Salmon: Let the salmon cook at 225°F for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. You can remove it sooner if you prefer a lighter, smoky flavor. For a more pungent, robust smokiness, let it cook for closer to 2 hours.
- Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Salmon is done when it reaches 145°F and flakes quickly with a fork. Be careful not to overcook it, as salmon can dry out quickly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Smoked Salmon
- Choose the Right Wood Pellets: Alder is the traditional wood used for smoking salmon because its mild, sweet flavor enhances the fish without overpowering it. However, other fruitwoods like cherry or apple also work well, adding a subtle fruity undertone to the smoke.
- Use a Drip Tray: To keep your Grill clean and avoid flare-ups, place a drip tray or aluminum foil under the salmon. This will catch any fat or juices from the fish as it cooks.
- Let It Rest: Once the salmon reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the Grill and rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the fish even more flavorful and moist.
Serving Your Traeger Smoked Salmon
Now that your salmon is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve! The versatility of smoked salmon makes it suitable for a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
- Classic Presentation: Serve the smoked salmon fillets with a side of roasted vegetables, a light salad, or some wild Rice for a balanced, healthy meal. A garnish of fresh herbs like dill or parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side adds a nice touch of freshness.
- Salmon Salad: Flake the smoked salmon and toss it into a salad with mixed greens, avocado, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. This makes for a light, refreshing dish with plenty of flavor.
- Salmon Tacos: For a fun twist, break the salmon into chunks and serve it in warm tortillas with a fresh slaw and a squeeze of lime—the smoky fish pairs wonderfully with the bright, zesty flavors of taco toppings.
- Smoked Salmon Dip: If you have leftovers, mix flaked smoked salmon with cream cheese, lemon juice, and fresh herbs to create a delicious spread for crackers or bagels. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Why You’ll Love Traeger Smoked Salmon
There are countless reasons to love this smoked salmon recipe, but a few key highlights stand out:
- Healthy and Delicious: Salmon is an excellent omega-3 fatty acids and protein source, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Cooking it on the Traeger enhances the flavor and keeps it light and nutritious.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep and the Traeger doing most of the work, this recipe is easy to pull off, even if you’re not an experienced griller.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a BBQ, smoked salmon is always a hit. It’s elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough for everyday meals.
Conclusion
Cooking salmon on a Traeger grill is a game-changer, bringing out the fish’s natural flavors with a subtle yet satisfying smokiness. With this recipe and a few helpful tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly smoked salmon that’s tender, flavorful, and sure to impress. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish, flaking it into salads, or using it in tacos, this tasty Traeger salmon recipe is one you’ll return to time and time again. So fire up your Traeger, and get ready to experience smoky salmon perfection!