The classic smoked salmon has been a staple at Jewish holiday meals since biblical times.
But if you’re not Jewish or don’t have access to the real deal (or even if you are), it’s no problem!
You can still get that same taste using simple products like the ones found in most grocery stores.
This Traeger salmon recipe is one such example.
It will give you all the flavor of a true smoked salmon without the hassle of having to hunt down a whole salmon.
What Ingredients Do You Need To Make Traeger Salmon?
You’ll only need two main ingredients – fresh salmon fillet and Traeger seasoning.
The rest of the ingredients are optional but they add extra flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 3 cloves garlic
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
– 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
There are many other spices you could choose from as well.
Try experimenting with different combinations until you find something you really love.
What Is The Cooking Time For Traeger Salmon?
Cooking time depends on how thick your salmon fillets are.
They usually measure anywhere between 5-6 ounces each so we recommend purchasing 6 pieces.
If you buy thinner fillets, then just cut them into 4 equal portions before putting them onto the grill.
If you want to be sure about getting exactly the right amount of smoke flavor, try setting your Traeger thermostat to 250°F.
That should ensure your salmon gets cooked through.
Otherwise, start checking around 10 minutes after placing the salmon onto the grill.
To avoid undercooked salmon, keep an eye on the internal temp.
Once you see the meat reaching 145 degrees F, remove it from the heat immediately and continue cooking it on high for another 2-3 minutes.
When done, turn off the Traeger and let the salmon cool completely.
What Is The Best Temperature To Cook Traeger Salmon?
Generally speaking, the higher the temperature, the more flavorful the food will become.
In this case, however, lower temperatures result in less smokey flavor.
So, if you want to replicate the exact taste, stick to the following temperatures:
250°F – For tenderness and juiciness
300°F – For medium rare
350°F – For medium
400°F – For medium well
450°F – For well done
500°F – For crispy skin and crunchy flesh
Remember, the ideal temperature for any piece of food is somewhere between 160-180°F.
Anything below that and you risk losing too much moisture content while anything above 180°F tends to dry out the product.
What Type Of Wood Chips Should You Use For Traeger Salmon?
Wood chips such as applewood, hickory, mesquite and cherry provide great flavor and aroma to foods.
However, these types of woods also burn fast, which means you’ll have to replenish the fire often.
To eliminate this drawback, opt for oak or maple instead.
These woods create slow burning fires that last longer than those made with regular hardwoods.
How Should You Season Traeger Salmon?
Seasonings include salt, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, etc.
Salt plays a key role in balancing out the overall flavor profile of the food.
Since the Traeger doesn’t come with a built-in thermometer, you’ll have to rely on the internal temperature readings provided by the manufacturer.
Using a Thermapen thermometer would help you gauge the correct level of saltiness.
Most people prefer their salmon served with horseradish sauce, sour cream and capers.
Other popular options include red wine vinaigrette, spicy mayo, lemon wedges, and chive butter.
Experiment with different sauces or dressings to discover the ones you like the most.
What Type Of Glaze Should You Use For Traeger Salmon?
Glazes consist of sweet, salty and tangy elements.
While some people prefer honey, brown sugar or molasses, others prefer soy sauce, hoisin sauce or ketchup.
There are endless possibilities here.
Just pick whatever suits your taste buds!
How Do You Know When Traeger Salmon Is Cooked Properly?
Once you’ve added the final touches and put everything together, all that remains is waiting.
And the wait won’t take long because the salmon is ready almost instantly once placed over the flame.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Traeger Salmon?
Serve hot with a variety of condiments including tartar sauce, capers, lemon slices, crème fraiche, creamed spinach and chives.
Or pair it with potato salad, coleslaw, green beans, steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, macaroni and cheese, and grilled corn cob.
Is Traeger Salmon Healthy?
While there isn’t enough evidence available to prove whether Traeger Salmon is healthier compared to traditional methods, it does contain fewer calories and fat.
Plus, it doesn’t require much space to prepare.
All in all, it makes a great choice for outdoor entertaining.
What Side Dishes Go Well With Traeger Salmon?
Side dishes include salads, pasta, potatoes, breads, rolls, biscuits, flatbread, pancakes, waffles, French toast, yogurt parfaits, fruit compote, and granola bars.
Take advantage of the wide variety of recipes and ideas available online.
With our guide, you’ll learn everything from how to prep the fish to how to present it.
Not only that, you’ll also gain valuable tips on how to maintain optimal health during the process.
Equipment
- Traeger
Ingredients
- 3 lb salmon fillet skin-on
- 1/4 Cup Olive oil
- 2 Tablespoon garlic minced
- 1/2 Tablespoon parsley fresh minced
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Traeger Fin & Feather Rub
Instructions
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat the Traeger to 500°F with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
- Butcher paper or parchment paper should be used to line a baking sheet. Season the salmon skin side down on a baking sheet with the Traeger Fin & Feather Rub.
- Combine the olive oil, garlic, and parsley in a small bowl. Brush the salmon fillet with the garlic mixture. Any remaining garlic oil should be saved.
- In the thickest part of the salmon fillet, insert the probe. Place the baking sheet on the grill grates, close the lid, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F and the fish flakes easily.
- Brush the salmon with any remaining garlic oil after it has been removed from the grill. With lemon wedges, serve. Enjoy!
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My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.