Herb Grilled Salmon (Olive Garden Copycat)

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Aug 18, 2023

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Olive Garden’s Herb Grilled Chicken is a standout dish at the cozy restaurant chain, for good reason. The perfectly tender and juicy grilled salmon fillet is marinated in an rich Italian herb-infused butter sauce and served alongside roasted or steamed broccoli.

This copycat recipe is the perfect way to indulge in this rich and flavorful dish while adhering to your Weight Watchers program. The key lies in our innovative light butter sauce, where over half of the butter has been replaced with a balanced fish broth and a touch of cornstarch to achieve a perfectly buttery consistency without the guilt.

And if you love copycat recipes, be sure to check out my collection of Olive Garden Copycat Ideas!

Why you should try this Herb Grilled Salmon recipe

1. Perfect Pairing: The combination of salmon and broccoli is a match made in culinary heaven, akin to bread and butter. Exploring this duo is not only a delightful idea but also a nutritional powerhouse.

2. Broccoli’s Brilliance: Broccoli boasts a treasure trove of nutrients, from vitamins and minerals to fiber and antioxidants. It supports immunity, aids digestion, and promotes radiant skin, all while adding a vibrant touch to your plate.

3. Salmon’s Omega-3 Riches: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a heart-healthy wonder. Enhancing brain function, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular health are just a few of its many benefits. Plus, its high-quality protein content makes it a satisfying choice.

4. Lighter Olive Garden Icon: Indulge in the iconic Olive Garden Herb Grilled Salmon experience, but with a healthier twist. Our adaptation maintains the dish’s essence while significantly cutting back on butter, offering you the same flavorsome delight with fewer calories.

Olive Garden Copycat Salmon Recipe Overview

Each serving is 3 WW Points.
Makes 3 servings

Ingredients

Raw salmon fillet, a bunch of parsley, a lime, seasonings in a dish, softened butter, two garlic cloves, and cornstarch dissolved in broth.

400g salmon fillet
1 bunch of fresh parsley
2 cloves of garlic
1 lemon (juice and zest)
¼ cup chicken or fish broth
1 teaspoon cornstarch (dissolved in the broth)
1 tablespoon Italian herbs
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for making Herb Grilled Salmon

1. Crush the garlic and finely chop the parsley and grate the lemon zest and squeeze out its juice.

2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Melt a teaspoon of butter in the skillet. Place the fillets in the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden crust. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside to rest.

3. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Pour in the chicken or fish broth with dissolved cornstarch. Add the chopped parsley, crushed garlic, Italian herbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for about 3 minutes until it reaches a semi-creamy consistency.

4. Combine and Finish: Place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the herb sauce over the fillets. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the salmon to soak in the flavorful sauce.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully transfer the herb-infused salmon fillets onto serving plates. Drizzle plenty of the herb sauce over the fillets. Serve alongside broccoli.

Crushed garlic and finely chopped parsley beside a zested lemon and grater.

Seasoned salmon with the skin on in a hot skillet.

Melted butter, chicken stock, chopped parsley, crushed garlic, Italian herbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a hot skillet.

Seared salmon filets and butter sauce together in a hot skillet.

Variations and substitutions

1. Fish Swap: Try mahi-mahi or hake instead of salmon for a different taste while keeping the grilled essence.

2. Herb Exploration: Experiment with cilantro, oregano, or rosemary for unique herbal aromas.

3. Veggie Twist: Replace broccoli with roasted green beans or Brussels sprouts for diverse textures.

4. Citrus Zest: Add a citrusy kick with lemon, lime, or orange juice for some added zip.

5. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts for an enjoyable crunch.

6. Mediterranean Flair: Drizzle balsamic reduction or light vinaigrette for a Mediterranean touch.

7. Grain Base: Serve over quinoa, farro, or couscous for added heartiness.

8. Creamy Option: Opt for a Greek yogurt-based herb sauce for creaminess without excess calories.

9. Spice Infusion: Enhance with paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for a flavor-packed twist.

10. Asian Fusion: Marinate with soy-ginger mix, and serve with stir-fried veggies for an Asian-inspired twist.

Tips and Tricks Section for Making Herb Grilled Salmon

1. Flavorful Infusion: Marinate the salmon for about half an hour to ensure it absorbs the savory notes of salt and pepper, elevating the taste profile.

2. Hot Sear Technique: Preheat the skillet for a minimum of 3 minutes before cooking the salmon, ensuring a perfect sear and a mouthwatering crust.

3. Timing Precision: Keep cooking time in check – no more than 10 minutes for a thick fillet, and around 5 minutes for thinner cuts – ensuring the salmon remains tender and juicy.

4. Fresh Herb Elegance: Embrace the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs. Enhance the dish’s character by using finely chopped, fragrant herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

5. Flavorful Finish (5th Tip): Elevate the final taste by drizzling a light lemon-infused olive oil over the grilled herb salmon just before serving. This adds a zesty touch that beautifully complements the herbaceous essence, creating a truly tantalizing experience.

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