Name: Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: For the Herb Butter:; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon lemon zest; ½ teaspoon salt; For the Salmon:; 4 (6-ounce) salmon filets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2–3 tablespoons Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon slices (for serving)

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This Olive Garden-inspired Herb Grilled Salmon is a quick and flavorful main dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste at home. The salmon is seared until golden, then topped with a zesty garlic-herb butter that melts beautifully over the warm fish. Finished with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s an elegant meal ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or a light dinner that feels special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Herb Grilled Salmon is all about simplicity and flavor. The sear gives the salmon a crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The herb butter—made with garlic, lemon zest, and parsley—adds richness and brightness, making each bite vibrant and satisfying. It’s easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Herb Butter:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon salt

For the Salmon:

4 (6-ounce) salmon filets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2–3 tablespoons Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon slices (for serving)

directions

Make the Herb Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, and salt until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to plastic wrap, form into a log, and twist the ends. Freeze for 3–5 minutes to firm up.
Season the Salmon:
Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels. Sprinkle evenly with kosher salt and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Sear the Salmon:
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.
Place salmon filets flesh-side down and sear for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and the fish releases easily from the pan.
Finish Cooking:
Flip the salmon filets. Top each with a slice of the herb butter.
Cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 130°F.
Serve:
Remove from heat and top with additional herb butter, chopped parsley, and lemon slices.
Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories per serving: 622 kcal

Variations

Lemon Dill Twist: Swap parsley for fresh dill and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter, more citrus-forward finish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter for mild heat.
Grilled Version: Instead of searing, grill the salmon on a preheated grill for 4–5 minutes per side.
Garlic Herb Crust: Add panko breadcrumbs and a bit of herb butter on top for a crunchy finish.
Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based butter alternative for the herb butter.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a 300°F oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the salmon.

FAQs

Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?

Yes, the herb butter can be made days in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer until ready to use.

Can I use frozen salmon filets?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What kind of pan is best for this recipe?

A cast iron skillet is ideal for getting a golden sear, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are preferred for flavor and texture, but you can use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs in a pinch.

Is salmon skin-on or skinless for this recipe?

Skinless is preferred for an even sear, but skin-on works if you sear skin-side down first.

What sides go well with herb grilled salmon?

Try roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, sautéed greens, or a fresh arugula salad.

How do I know when salmon is done?

Use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium doneness, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Can I bake the salmon instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, adding the herb butter halfway through baking.

Can I use this recipe for other fish?

Absolutely—trout, halibut, or cod all work well with the herb butter and searing technique.

How do I make this recipe low-calorie?

Use less butter and pair with a light side like steamed vegetables or salad.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden-inspired Herb Grilled Salmon is a quick and elegant meal that brings restaurant flavor straight to your kitchen. With buttery herb topping and perfectly seared salmon, it’s a dish that looks and tastes gourmet—but comes together in just 20 minutes. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying, balanced dinner any night of the week.

Jessica