22 Jun Fire Up the Grill: 4 California King Salmon Recipes

Fire Up the Grill: 4 California King Salmon Recipes for Summer

California King Salmon is a natural fit for the grill. It’s tender, flaky, rich, and buttery, making it a fan favorite for gatherings of all sizes!

If you’re looking for fresh ways to enjoy the season, these four grilled recipes show just how versatile it can be.

1. Grilled Salmon Skewers

If you want something easy, colorful, and great for entertaining, Grilled Salmon Skewers are a strong place to start. This recipe marinates salmon strips and serves them with a gazpacho salsa, then grills the fish over medium-hot coals or gas heat for just a few minutes per side. It can be served as an appetizer and an entrée, making it especially flexible for summer gatherings.

It’s great because:

• it feeds up to 12 people
• it’s easy to serve as a starter or main dish
• the skewers make it easy to nibble while socializing
• you can’t beat the fresh, bright flavors that feel summery

Get the Grilled Salmon Skewer Recipe here.

2. Grilled Whole Salmon with Aromatic Rub

For a more dramatic presentation, Grilled Whole Salmon with Aromatic Rub is a standout. The recipe uses one whole cleaned and scaled California King salmon, seasoned with a spice blend that includes paprika, white pepper, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, salt, sugar, and cayenne. It’s the perfect main course for backyard entertaining where you’re feeding a group.

It’s great because:

• it makes a memorable centerpiece
• it’s ideal for feeding a crowd or having left overs
• it brings bold grilled flavor with a warm, aromatic rub

Get the Grilled Whole Salmon with Aromatic Rub Recipe here.

3. Grilled Salmon Tacos

For something a little more casual and crowd-pleasing, Grilled Salmon Tacos are a perfect summer choice. Created by Chef Gonzalo Rivera, this recipe offers a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy California King salmon in a way that feels easy, fun, and made for sharing. Because everyone loves tacos, it is a natural fit for weeknight grilling, family dinners, and relaxed outdoor meals.

It’s great because:

• tacos are easy and feed a wide range of eaters
• it’s ideal for summer meals and outdoor dining
• you can add your own flare with the fixings
• it is a fun way to serve premium California King salmon

Get the Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe here.

4. Cedar Plank Salmon with Miso Soy Glaze

If you want something that feels a little more elevated, Cedar Plank Salmon with Miso Soy Glaze brings together grilling and big flavor. The recipe uses honey, white miso, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, and calls for curing the cedar plank before grilling the salmon over medium-high heat for indirect cooking. The result is a sweet-savory preparation that feels both rustic and refined.

It’s great because:

• you get a bold sweet-savory flavor
• the cedar plank cooking adds outdoor grilling appeal
• it makes for a special summer dinner

Get the Cedar Plank Salmon with Miso Soy Glaze Recipe here.

Why California King Salmon Belongs on the Grill

Grilling is one of the best ways to highlight what makes California King salmon so special. Whether you want something simple and shareable like skewers, relaxed and family-friendly like tacos, or more impressive like a whole fish or cedar plank entrée, these recipes offer several ways to make the most of the season. Happy grilling!!!