Name: Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs salmon fillets skin on or off; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp ancho chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 1 avocado cubed; ½ red onion sliced or diced; 2 limes juiced; 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

If you're craving something fresh, flavorful, and downright simple, this Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a beautiful mix of smoky, tender salmon paired with a zesty, creamy avocado topping — ready in just 10 minutes of hands-on time (plus a little marinating magic).

The dish shows three large pieces of grilled salmon with a reddish-orange color and dark grill marks, placed close together on a white plate. On top of the salmon, there is a chunky mixture of avocado and red onion pieces, which are light green and purple respectively, piled along the center of the salmon. The salmon has a slightly flaky texture at the edges where it has been separated. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made this grilled salmon with avocado salsa more times than I can count, and it never disappoints. It’s my quick fix when I want something healthy but still packed with big flavors — perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Lightning-fast prep: Just 10 minutes active time, plus marinating, means you’re not stuck in the kitchen all evening.
Bright, fresh salsa: The avocado salsa brings a cool, citrusy punch that balances the smoky salmon perfectly.
Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and good fats, this meal fuels you without feeling heavy.
Grill-friendly: Perfect for a quick weeknight or a weekend barbecue — grill marks never looked so good.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When shopping for this dish, look for fresh, firm salmon fillets — skin on or off is your choice. For the freshest avocado salsa, pick ripe but firm avocados and bright, juicy limes. Simple pantry spices round out the flavors beautifully.

Flat lay of two fresh salmon fillets with skin on, a halved ripe avocado with cubed flesh visible, half a small red onion sliced thinly, two whole bright green limes, a small white ceramic bowl of golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl with coarse kosher salt, a small white ceramic bowl with a vibrant mix of ground ancho chili powder, ground cumin, ground paprika, onion powder, and ground black pepper, and a small white ceramic bowl filled with fresh chopped cilantro leaves—all arranged in perfect symmetry, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Salmon fillets: Choose wild-caught if possible for the best flavor and texture; skin on helps hold the fish together on the grill.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and adds a lovely richness to the salmon.
Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Ancho chili powder: Adds a smoky mild heat that’s subtle but delicious.
Ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth, balancing the bright salsa.
Ground paprika: Offers a sweet, smoky depth that pairs perfectly with grilled salmon.
Onion powder: A gentle savory note that complements the spices.
Ground black pepper: Freshly ground for a little punch and complexity.
Avocado: Creamy texture and mild flavor form the heart of the salsa.
Red onion: Adds a crisp bite and a touch of sharpness for contrast.
Limes: Freshly squeezed juice brightens everything up and keeps the avocado from browning.
Fresh cilantro: Imparts a fragrant, herby zing that livens up the salsa.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of this Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Feel free to tweak the seasoning or salsa ingredients to match your taste buds or what’s fresh at the market.

Variation: I sometimes swap ancho chili powder for smoked paprika if I want a milder, smoky flavor, which adds a delicious twist without overpowering the fresh avocado salsa.
Fresh Herb Swap: If you’re not a cilantro fan, fresh basil or parsley works wonderfully in the salsa for a different but equally fresh taste.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, adding a finely chopped jalapeño to the avocado salsa gives the dish a nice extra kick without overshadowing the creamy avocado.
Seasonal Twist: In summer, I love adding diced fresh mango or pineapple to the salsa for a tropical flair that perfectly complements the grilled salmon.
Diet-Friendly: This recipe is naturally gluten free and packed with protein—it’s perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe

The dish shows two pieces of cooked salmon with a slightly charred, orange-red skin on the bottom layer, revealing tender, flaky, light orange flesh underneath. On top of the salmon is a chunky mix of diced avocado and finely chopped red onions, adding light green and purple colors with a creamy and fresh texture. The food is placed on a white plate with a subtle, smooth surface, and the background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whip Up the Seasoning Mix

Start by combining 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon ground black pepper in a small bowl. This blend brings a balanced smokiness and warmth, setting the foundation for the salmon’s flavor.

Step 2: Season and Marinate the Salmon

Rub 2 pounds of salmon fillets evenly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick and adds a lovely sheen. Next, coat your fillets with the seasoning mix. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes — this marinating time lets all those spices fully infuse the salmon, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

Step 3: Make the Fresh Avocado Salsa

While the salmon marinates, gently combine 1 cubed avocado, ½ sliced or diced red onion, the juice of 2 limes, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro in a bowl. Mixing carefully preserves the avocado shape while infusing every bite with zesty, fresh notes. Chill until you’re ready to serve.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Set your grill to medium, aiming for 350-375°F. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled — this is key to preventing the salmon from sticking or falling apart while cooking. A well-preheated grill helps get that perfect sear and keeps the fish juicy.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon to Perfection

Place salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down if applicable. Grill about 3 to 4 minutes per side, closing the lid to keep the temperature steady. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This quick grilling locks in moisture and creates a beautiful, slightly charred exterior.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the salmon from the grill and top generously with the chilled avocado salsa. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm, smoky fish with the cool, bright salsa — it’s a blend that’s simply irresistible.

Top Tip

These tips will help you nail the Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe every single time, making your dinner not only delicious but stress-free and perfectly cooked.

Perfect Marinade Time: I learned that marinating the salmon for at least 30 minutes, but not longer than an hour, really allows the spices to penetrate without overpowering the natural fish flavor.
Grill Prep is Key: Always preheat your grill to medium heat (350-375°F) and oil the grates well. This keeps the salmon from sticking and breaking apart when you flip it.
Keep the Lid Closed: Closing the grill lid helps maintain consistent heat around the salmon, ensuring even cooking and those lovely grill marks.
Don’t Overcook: I avoid drying out the salmon by cooking it about 3-4 minutes per side and using a meat thermometer to reach that perfect 145°F internal temperature.

How to Serve Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface filled with a salad made up of three layers: large chunks of green avocado with soft texture, small pieces of purple red onion with a smooth texture, and tiny bits of green leafy herbs mixed throughout. The ingredients are mixed and show a slight shine from dressing or juice, giving the salad a fresh and juicy look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro or a few lime wedges on the side brightens up the dish and adds an extra layer of freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of smoked paprika can also elevate the presentation.

Side Dishes

This grilled salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad. For a summer feel, try grilled corn on the cob or a quinoa salad with fresh herbs to keep things light and nutritious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. Keep the avocado salsa separate to avoid browning and sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to freeze cooked salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Note that avocado salsa is best made fresh and doesn’t freeze well.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the salmon in an oven at 275°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can dry the fish out. Add the fresh avocado salsa right before serving to keep that vibrant flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before seasoning and grilling to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries. You can use a stovetop grill pan or bake the salmon in the oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.

How do I prevent the avocado salsa from browning?

The lime juice in the salsa helps keep the avocado fresh. Store it tightly covered in the fridge and add the salsa to the salmon just before serving for the best flavor and appearance.

What’s the best way to tell when the salmon is done?

Look for the salmon to flake easily when pressed gently with a fork or check that it has reached an internal temperature of 145°F using a meat thermometer.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Salmon with Fresh Avocado Salsa Recipe is one of my absolute favorites for its bright flavors and quick preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend barbecue, it comes together in about 10 minutes of active time with that lovely marinating in between. The fresh avocado salsa adds a creamy, zesty touch that perfectly complements the smoky, spiced salmon. I hope this recipe brings joy and simplicity to your table as it has to mine!