The State of Maine is well known for its rocky coastline, scenic views and its seafood. The choice’s of Maine seafood is almost limitless from the most famous Fresh Maine Lobster to Steamer Clams, Mussels, Crabmeat, Maine Shrimp, Wild Salmon, Tuna, Swordfish, Haddock, Cod and New England Scallops. Even the most finicky of seafood eaters will find something to tempt their palate. As we enter the summer months residents and visitors alike will start pulling out and firing up the grills and begin to enjoying the taste of Maine.

One of my favorite fish to grill is fresh Maine Atlantic Salmon. It can been grilled using a variety of spices and is considered rich in Omega 3, and is good source of protein and vitamins.

Fresh Tuna Steak, Swordfish or Shark can be used as well

The Purchase

When looking to purchase salmon for grilling, one should look for:

- filets or steaks that are about ths same thickness.

(Most seafood counters/stores are very willing to assist in this. Purchasing a whole salmon may end up costing 1$ to $1.50 per pound cheaper, but you will be paying for the th bones head etc. If you are sqemish about cutting your own fish, some seafood counters/stores will assist by cutting this for you after purchase.)

- Ensure the fish does not smell fishy

(fresh fish does not smell)

- Ensure the fish is moist

Keeping Fresh Fish

- For best results keep fresh fish in the refrigerator for no more than two days, in a squeeze it can be kept for three, but it is not recomeneded. Fish can be frozen for up to four months if needed.

Fish Preperation

- For this recipee you will need, A fork, salmon steaks or filets, fresh lemon, garlic salt and pepper, and salad dressing (mircle whip). For the grill you will need a non stick fish basket

Start the grill

Rinse off the filet or steak in cool water.

(you are rinsing off any scales that might be on the fish)

Its all about preferences for the next part, on the filets some individuasl prefer cooking with skin still left on, for this example, you will need to ensure the skin is removed. For Salmon steaks do not remove the skin and this will cause the steak to fall apart

Using a fork poke several holes in the fish both sides

Spinkle on your seasoning, garlic salt, pepper

(There are many seasonngs that can be used here, dill, regualar salt if you do not like garlic, basil etc…)

Cut up your fresh lemon and squeeze over the fish, Gently rub the seasonig and lemon into the fish

Next you want to spread a thin layer of salad dressing  (This will seal in the lemon and spices wihile cooking, you will want to season both sides of your fish his way)

Grilling Your Fish

Place your fish inside the cooking basket and suspend over the grill,

The total average cooking time for salmon is 8-10 minutes, which for salmon steaks equals 4 -5 minutes per side.

Fish is considered done cooking, when it is opaque in color and easiy comes apart.

Remove fish from grill and basket, squeeze fresh lemon over top and serve.