Pro tips from Weber: How to perfectly smoke a salmon filet

CHICAGO - Take your grilling game to the next level with a smoky, flavorful salmon filet that’s sure to impress. 

Using natural hardwood pellets and your trusty pellet grill, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your backyard. 

Here’s how to make it happen:

Ingredients:

• Salmon (3–4 lbs.): Skin-on for optimal flavor and moisture retention.
• Kosher Salt: To taste.
• Fine Black Pepper: For seasoning perfection.

Pellet Flavor Options:

Choose from these natural hardwood pellet varieties to add your desired flavor profile:

• Hickory
• Apple
• Cherry
• GrillMaster Blend

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Load Your Grill
Fill the hopper with your chosen pellet flavor. Hickory delivers a bold, smoky essence, while apple and cherry add a subtle sweetness. The GrillMaster blend is perfect for a balanced taste.

Prepare the Grill
Set the temperature to 250°F and ensure your pellet grill remains on throughout the process. For added convenience, connect your grill to the Weber Connect app for notifications and SmokeBoost control.

Activate SmokeBoost
Once the grill reaches 225°F, engage the SmokeBoost setting. This lowers the ambient temperature to 165–200°F, infusing the salmon with deep, smoky flavors.

Season the Salmon
Generously season the flesh side of the salmon with kosher salt and fine black pepper.

Start Smoking
Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill grates. Close the lid and let the SmokeBoost work its magic for about 1 hour.

Adjust Cooking Settings
Deactivate the SmokeBoost after the first hour. The grill will automatically adjust back to 225°F. Continue smoking the salmon for 1–2 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F.

Cool and Serve
Carefully remove the salmon from the grill and transfer it to a baking sheet. Let it cool to room temperature for immediate serving or refrigerate for later use. If refrigerated, bring the salmon to room temperature 30 minutes before serving.

The Result:

A perfectly smoked salmon filet that’s moist, flaky, and packed with flavor.