Traeger Smoked Salmon
Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating
Experience the rich, smoky flavor of homemade Traeger Smoked Salmon, a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and expert smoking techniques. This easy-to-follow recipe results in tender, flaky salmon infused with herbs and spices, making it a delightful addition to any brunch or dinner spread. Serve it on bagels, salads, or enjoy it simply on its own for a healthy, gourmet treat.
Discover the art of smoking salmon at home and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. This Traeger Smoked Salmon recipe provides a flavorful experience that captures the essence of smoked fish, enhancing your meals in a delicious way.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Traeger Smoked Salmon is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal, whether it's a casual brunch or a fancy dinner party. Its presentation alone is enough to impress your guests, making it a stunning centerpiece on your dining table. The rich, smoky flavor beautifully pairs with various sides, ensuring that it complements your meal perfectly.
You can get creative with the serving options too. Try placing slices of smoked salmon on toasted bagels with cream cheese, or toss it into fresh salads for added protein and flavor. No matter how you serve it, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Health Benefits of Smoked Salmon
In addition to its delicious taste, Traeger Smoked Salmon provides numerous health benefits that make it a smart choice for any meal. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein that helps build and repair tissues in the body, making it perfect for those with active lifestyles or anyone aiming for balanced nutrition.
Furthermore, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They have been shown to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Plus, the spices and herbs used in this recipe enhance nutrient absorption while adding even more flavor that you will delight in.
Mastering the Art of Smoking Fish
Smoking fish may seem intimidating at first, but with a Traeger grill, it becomes an enjoyable experience for even novice cooks. The digital controls and temperature settings enable precise cooking, ensuring that your salmon remains moist and flavorful throughout the smoking process. Utilizing high-quality wood pellets adds depth to the flavor, allowing you to customize the smokiness to match your preference.
To achieve the best results, make sure to use the freshest salmon available, as the quality of your ingredients plays a significant role in the final outcome. By perfecting your smoking technique, you'll not only create this delicious smoked salmon but also impress friends and family with your newfound culinary skills.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ingredients for Traeger Smoked Salmon
- 2 lbs fresh salmon fillet
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1 lemon, sliced
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Smoking Steps
Prepare the Salmon
Begin by mixing the brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill in a bowl. Rub this mixture all over the salmon fillet. Layer slices of lemon on top and wrap the salmon in plastic wrap.
Preheat the Traeger
Preheat your Traeger grill to 180°F (82°C). Make sure to use your favorite wood pellets for a heightened smoky flavor.
Smoke the Salmon
Once the grill is preheated, place the salmon directly on the grates. Close the lid and smoke for about 2 hours, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your smoked creation!
Tips for Perfecting Your Smoked Salmon
To achieve the perfect balance of flavor, consider brining your salmon longer than the recommended time—up to 24 hours can intensify the flavor and enhance the overall texture. During the smoking process, keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain the temperature and smoky environment.
Experiment with different wood pellet flavors such as hickory, apple, or cherry to find your ideal pairing. Each type of wood imparts its unique taste, allowing you to customize your dish even further. Keep notes on the combinations you love best, so you can recreate them in the future.
Storing and Reheating Smoked Salmon
If you have leftovers, storing smoked salmon properly is crucial to maintaining its freshness and flavor. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to use an airtight container or vacuum seal it to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating should be done gently to avoid drying out the fish. Consider warming it in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave at a low power setting for just a few seconds. This method preserves the flaky texture and ensures your salmon is as delicious as it was when freshly smoked.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before starting the brining process.
→ How long can I store smoked salmon?
Smoked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 2 months.
Traeger Smoked Salmon
Experience the rich, smoky flavor of homemade Traeger Smoked Salmon, a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and expert smoking techniques. This easy-to-follow recipe results in tender, flaky salmon infused with herbs and spices, making it a delightful addition to any brunch or dinner spread. Serve it on bagels, salads, or enjoy it simply on its own for a healthy, gourmet treat.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Wholesome & Clean Eating
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Traeger Smoked Salmon
- 2 lbs fresh salmon fillet
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1 lemon, sliced
How-To Steps
Begin by mixing the brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill in a bowl. Rub this mixture all over the salmon fillet. Layer slices of lemon on top and wrap the salmon in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat your Traeger grill to 180°F (82°C). Make sure to use your favorite wood pellets for a heightened smoky flavor.
Once the grill is preheated, place the salmon directly on the grates. Close the lid and smoke for about 2 hours, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 2g