Grilled Salmon Kebabs

The bold and smoky flavor of these Grilled Salmon Kebabs is elevated by a fiery harissa BBQ glaze that clings to every juicy bite. This recipe is a celebration of both fresh seafood and globally inspired spice blends, making it perfect for adventurous eaters and summer grilling enthusiasts alike.

Pair these skewers with grilled vegetables, couscous, or even a fresh herbed yogurt sauce for a full meal experience. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual backyard gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these Harissa BBQ Salmon Skewers deliver a mouthwatering balance of heat, sweetness, and savory depth.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs salmon fillet, skinless, cut into 1½-inch cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks

• 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1½-inch pieces

• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Harissa BBQ Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons harissa paste

• ¼ cup ketchup

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together all the Harissa BBQ sauce ingredients. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

5. Thread salmon, red onion, zucchini, and bell pepper alternately onto the skewers.

6. Brush the kebabs lightly with the harissa BBQ sauce.

7. Grill the kebabs for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with more sauce as they cook, until the salmon is just cooked through and the veggies are tender with charred edges.

8. Serve hot with remaining sauce on the side or drizzled on top.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Grilled Salmon Kebabs with Harissa BBQ Sauce: A Spicy, Smoky Summer Delight

When it comes to easy, healthy, and flavor-packed meals, grilled salmon is always a favorite. But when you elevate it by threading it onto skewers with vibrant vegetables and glazing it with a homemade harissa BBQ sauce, it becomes a show-stopping main dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or planning a weekend cookout, these grilled salmon kebabs deliver bold, exciting flavors and a beautiful presentation. Let’s explore why this recipe should be part of your regular rotation and what makes it so special.

Why You’ll Love These Grilled Salmon Kebabs

These skewers are the ultimate fusion of ease and elegance. The tender chunks of salmon are juicy, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, and grill to perfection in under 10 minutes. The accompanying vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions not only add color and texture but also absorb the smoky-sweet-spicy glaze, making every bite a burst of flavor.

The harissa BBQ sauce is what truly sets this recipe apart. Harissa, a North African chili paste made from hot peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices, provides an earthy heat that’s balanced by the sweetness of ketchup and brown sugar in the sauce. The smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky undertone, while the mustard and vinegar bring brightness and tang. It’s spicy, sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of bold, exactly what you want on a summer grill.

Health Benefits of Grilled Salmon

Salmon is one of the most nutrient-dense proteins you can include in your diet. It’s high in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to healthy brain function. It’s also an excellent source of high-quality protein, B vitamins (especially B12), potassium, and selenium. When grilled rather than fried or pan-seared in excess oil, salmon retains its healthful properties without adding unnecessary fat or calories.

The vegetables on the skewers further enhance the nutritional profile. Zucchini provides vitamin C and fiber, red bell peppers are high in antioxidants and vitamin A, and onions contain beneficial compounds like quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Together, this dish is a low-carb, high-protein, nutrient-rich option that supports a variety of diets, including pescatarian, low-carb, and Mediterranean styles of eating.

Ingredient Spotlight: Harissa

If you’re new to harissa, get ready to fall in love. This North African chili paste is incredibly versatile. It brings smoky heat and complex spice to everything from meats to vegetables, soups, and marinades. You can find harissa in most grocery stores in the international aisle or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.

In this recipe, harissa is combined with more familiar BBQ sauce ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar to create a fusion glaze that’s perfect for grilling. The result is a rich and glossy sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving your salmon kebabs an irresistible char and sticky finish.

Perfect for Grilling Season

One of the best things about kebabs is their quick cooking time and adaptability. These salmon skewers only need a few minutes per side, making them ideal for hot summer days when you don’t want to stand over a grill for too long.

You can also prep the components ahead of time. Cut and marinate the salmon, chop the veggies, and whisk together the sauce earlier in the day. Then, when it’s time to eat, just assemble the skewers, grill, and serve. They’re ideal for outdoor entertaining, weeknight meals, or even meal prep.

Tips for the Best Salmon Skewers

1. Choose the right salmon: Opt for firm, skinless fillets like Atlantic or sockeye. Avoid thin or flaky fillets that will fall apart on the grill.

2. Cut evenly: Make sure all salmon and vegetable pieces are similar in size to ensure even cooking.

3. Don’t skip the soak: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

4. Keep it hot: Preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the skewers. You want a good sear to lock in moisture.

5. Don’t overcook: Salmon is best when slightly pink in the middle. It only takes 6-8 minutes total on a hot grill.

6. Customize your veggies: You can substitute or add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or yellow squash.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled salmon kebabs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with grains: Pair with couscous, quinoa, or rice pilaf for a complete and satisfying meal.

• Add sauces: A herbed yogurt sauce or tzatziki complements the spicy harissa glaze beautifully.

• Wrap it up: Serve in warm pita or flatbread with shredded lettuce, cucumber, and extra sauce for an easy wrap.

• On a salad: Add the salmon and veggies to a big green salad with a lemony vinaigrette for a light, refreshing option.

These skewers also make a fantastic platter centerpiece. Serve them over a bed of grilled lemons and chopped herbs for a stunning presentation that’s guaranteed to impress your guests.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of kebabs lies in their flexibility. If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can use shrimp, chicken, or even tofu as a protein substitute. If you want a milder spice level, reduce the amount of harissa in the sauce or blend it with more ketchup and brown sugar.

Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the salmon for cubes of halloumi or firm tofu, and bulk up the veggie ratio. For a low-sugar version, skip the brown sugar and sweeten naturally with a splash of orange juice or a bit of honey.

This recipe is incredibly forgiving, so don’t be afraid to adjust it to fit your preferences and pantry.

A Dish That Bridges Cultures

This recipe is a celebration of cultural fusion, the flavors of North African harissa meet the American tradition of backyard BBQ. It’s a great introduction to global flavors for anyone new to cooking with spices, and it brings depth and excitement to your summer grilling lineup.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting your culinary journey, these salmon kebabs are a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand. They’re colorful, flavorful, health-conscious, and incredibly satisfying.

Conclusion

Grilled Salmon Kebabs with Harissa BBQ Sauce are more than just a meal, they’re an experience of bold flavor, vibrant color, and fresh, nourishing ingredients. They’re perfect for everything from a laid-back weekend cookout to a midweek dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With the added health benefits of salmon and vegetables, and the irresistible taste of homemade harissa BBQ sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

The versatility of the recipe allows you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary needs, while still delivering a consistent wow factor. Fire up your grill, grab your skewers, and let this flavor-packed recipe take your summer meals to the next level.