Barbeque Salmon

Have you noticed that grilling is implied to be a man's job? Why is that? At it's very root, it's simply a kitchen appliance that sits outside instead of inside. Even growing up, my dad did all the grilling and if you believe the Father's Day advertisements, that's the case with all families.

Well in our family, that isn't the case. We split mealtime responsibilities pretty evenly. I cook, he cleans. That doesn't mean we don't help each other out occasionally but more times than not, it works perfectly for us. So when I choose a grilled meal, I grill it.

Which means... I'm a total grill cheerleader. Odd? Perhaps, but I really do think people don't utilize it near enough. It's not only easy, but it keeps your kitchen cool in the hot months and leaves you with very few dirty dishes. And the results are awesome!

Have you dusted off your grill yet? If you're on the hunt for something new to throw on the grill this spring, try this delicious and simple fish recipe. It uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, cooks up fast, and is low calorie. The salmon ends up with a caramelized sweet and spicy crust that is perfect served alongside grilled vegetables or over a salad.

{I've also included oven instructions if you don't have access to a grill}

Barbeque Salmon
1/4 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
2 tablespoons brown sugar
4 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cooking spray

Combine pineapple juice, lemon juice, and salmon in a zip-top plastic bag; seal and marinate in refrigerator 1 hour, turning occasionally.

Preheat grill for medium heat.

Remove fish from bad and discard marinade. Combine the sugar, chili powder, lemon zest, cumin, salt, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Rub over fish.

Lightly oil the grill grate. Place salmon on the grill, cover, and cook 6-8 minutes per side until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Optional oven method: Preheat oven to 400°. After applying the rub, place the fish in an glass or ceramic baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake for 12 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Source: adapted from What's Cookin, Chicago?, originally from Cooking Light (includes nutritional info)