Around the Campfire
Lemon pepper salmon is a clean, simple camp dinner for the night when you want something lighter than burgers or sausage. It cooks quickly and pairs well with potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Why This Recipe Works
The Blackstone gives salmon steady surface heat. Medium heat helps the fish cook through without drying out before the center is ready.
Quick Facts
- Serves: 4
- Heat zone: Medium
- Best for: Seafood nights, lighter dinners, quick mains
- Teaches: Gentle protein cooking
Shopping List
- Salmon fillets
- Lemon pepper seasoning
- Butter
- Lemon
- Optional parsley or green onions
Home Prep
Portion salmon before the trip if needed. Pack seasoning and lemon together.
Cooler Packing
Keep salmon very cold and sealed. Store it away from ready-to-eat foods.
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle
- Fish spatula or wide spatula
- Tongs
Heat Zones
Use medium for the seafood and a cooler zone for rice or the finished pieces.
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for finishing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the griddle to medium.
- Season salmon fillets on both sides with lemon pepper seasoning.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the griddle and let it melt.
- Place salmon on the griddle, skin-side down if skin-on.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning gently if needed.
- During the last minute of cooking, add a little more butter and drizzle with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
- Serve hot.
Doneness
Salmon should be opaque and flake easily.
Common Mistakes
- Cooking over too much heat.
- Moving the salmon too soon.
- Letting butter burn before the fish cooks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with griddled zucchini, potatoes, rice, or salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions if desired. Lemon wedges or extra lemon juice can be added at the table.
Variations
- Add garlic butter.
- Use Cajun seasoning.
- Serve in rice bowls.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: As written if seasoning is verified.
- Dairy-free: Use oil instead of butter.
- Low-carb: Serve with vegetables.
Scaling
Cook fillets in batches and avoid crowding.
Weather Notes
Wind can cool the griddle but fish still cooks quickly. Watch closely.
Leftovers
Use leftovers in wraps, salads, or rice bowls.
Kid Helper Tasks
Kids can squeeze lemon after cooking and help set sides.
Dragonfly Tip
Let the fish release naturally before moving it. If it sticks hard, wait a little longer.
Dragonfly Challenge
Serve one piece with lemon only and one with extra seasoning. Pick the family version.