If you’re craving a sandwich that’s anything but ordinary, wait till you try my Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe. This isn’t your classic BLT—it’s got that smoky, grilled salmon that’s perfectly seasoned, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce and tomato, all elevated with a creamy, slightly smoky charred scallion mayo that’ll make you want seconds (and maybe thirds!). Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step so your sandwich turns out just right, juicy and full of flavor every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Flavor Combination: Smoky grilled salmon meets crispy bacon and fresh veggies, balanced by the tangy charred scallion mayo.
- Easy to Prepare: The spice rub and grilling tips make cooking salmon simple—even if it’s your first time grilling fish.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can swap bread types or adjust spice levels to suit your tastes.
- Meal-Ready Fast: Ready in about 40 minutes, great for a weeknight dinner or casual weekend cookout.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient here plays a big role in making this grilled salmon BLT sing. I love how the smoky paprika and herbs bring out the flavor of the salmon, while the charred scallions in the mayo add a subtle yet addictive twist. Plus, using sourdough bread gives the sandwich a nice chewy texture that holds up well to the juicy fillings.

- Bacon: Crisp it up well—it adds that irresistible crunch and smoky depth.
- Salmon filet: Look for fresh, skin-on if possible—makes grilling easier and adds flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Brings warmth and smokiness without overpowering the salmon.
- Dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder: These herbs and spices round out the seasoning beautifully.
- Crushed red pepper: Optional, but I like the little kick it adds to balance richness.
- Sourdough bread: Thick slices hold up well to juicy salmon and mayo without sogging.
- Scallions: Grilling them first mellows their sharpness and adds a fantastic smoky flair.
- Tomatoes: Choose ripe but firm—too juicy can make the bread soggy.
- Romaine or green leaf lettuce: Offers a fresh crunch with a mild flavor.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the scallion mayo, binding everything together.
Note:
Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Make It Your Way
One of my favorite parts about this Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe is how easy it is to swap things in and out. I often adjust the spice mix or swap sourdough for a hearty rye to mix things up. Feel free to make this sandwich truly yours.
- Variation: I sometimes add a slice of sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for extra richness—it’s a game changer!
- Dietary modification: For a lighter version, skip the bacon or use turkey bacon and swap mayo for Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of lemon juice.
- Seasonal tweaks: In summer, I love adding fresh basil leaves or swapping romaine for peppery arugula.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe

Step 1: Get the Bacon Ready (My Favorite First Step!)
I almost always start by cooking the bacon first. You can pan-fry it or bake it in the oven on a rack at 400°F to get it evenly crispy without the mess. If you prep bacon ahead (even the day before), it saves so much time when you start grilling. Keep it warm on a paper towel-lined plate while you get next steps done.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep Your Grill
Heat your grill to around 400-450°F. This hotter temp is perfect for getting those beautiful grill marks on your salmon and bread without overcooking. Meanwhile, pat your salmon dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick and ensures a nice sear.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Mix smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Sprinkle this all over the salmon generously. Don’t be shy here—a good layer of seasoning really brings out the flavors.
Step 4: Grill the Salmon, Bread & Scallions
Place your salmon skin-side down on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes. You’re looking for opaque, pink flesh that flakes easily. While that’s grilling, toss your sliced bread and whole scallions on the grill too. The bread takes just 1-2 minutes per side to get perfect grill marks. Grilled scallions get smoky and tender after about 5 minutes, turning them once or twice.
Step 5: Make the Charred Scallion Mayo
Once your scallions are grilled and cooled slightly, slice them up and mix them into half a cup of mayo. This mayo is where the magic happens—those charred scallions give it a depth that elevates your sandwich.
Step 6: Assemble Your Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe
Slice your salmon into pieces that fit your bread. Spread about a tablespoon of scallion mayo on each bread slice. Layer with lettuce, salmon, tomato, crispy bacon, then top with the other slice. Slice in half for easier eating and enjoy immediately while everything’s fresh and warm.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe
- Don’t Overcook The Salmon: Salmon cooks fast on high heat; keep an eye! When it flakes easily but still feels moist, it’s done.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Removing excess moisture helps achieve better searing and flavor absorption.
- Grill Scallions Whole: Char them gently for best smoky flavor—once sliced and mixed into mayo, it can transform the taste completely.
- Toast Bread Last-Minute: Keep your bread warm and crisp by grilling it just before assembling.
How to Serve Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe

Garnishes
I like to keep garnishes simple to let the sandwich shine. Some fresh lemon wedges on the side brighten up the salmon, and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top adds a nice touch. Sometimes I add a few fresh basil or dill leaves inside for an herby lift.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs beautifully with crispy sweet potato fries, a simple green salad with vinaigrette, or even a crunchy coleslaw. If you’re in a real hurry, some kettle-cooked chips and pickles always hit the spot.
Creative Ways to Present
I’ve brought this sandwich to BBQs sliced into small slider portions for guests—super fun and perfect for sharing. For a fancy brunch twist, slice the salmon thin and layer open-faced with edible flowers and microgreens on toasted baguette slices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers (which can happen despite your best intentions!), store the salmon, bacon, and scallion mayo separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Bread can get soggy if stored assembled, so I recommend assembling just before eating for best texture.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing this sandwich assembled because the bread and fresh ingredients don’t thaw well. However, you can freeze seasoned salmon filets before grilling for convenient future meals—just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat leftover salmon gently in a skillet over low-medium heat or in a toaster oven to preserve moisture. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to dry fish out. Toast the bread fresh and spread on mayo before serving.
FAQs
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Can I make the charred scallion mayo ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can grill and chop the scallions, then mix them into mayo a day ahead. Store it covered in the fridge and bring it back to room temperature before assembling your sandwich for the best flavor and spreadability.
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What if I don’t have a grill? Can I make this indoors?
Yes! You can use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat to get those lovely sear marks on the salmon, bread, and scallions. Just watch the heat and cooking times closely so nothing burns.
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Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While the components can be prepped ahead, I recommend assembling right before eating for the best texture and flavor, especially to keep bread from getting soggy. Pre-cooking bacon and making the mayo ahead definitely save time!
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Can I use other fish instead of salmon?
You certainly can! Firm, flavorful fishes like swordfish or tuna steaks would work nicely when grilled, but keep in mind the cooking times and seasoning might need adjusting to suit the fish.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen arsenal—it’s just the right balance of smoky, fresh, and satisfying. Whether you’re grilling for yourself, impressing guests, or just craving something that pants-worthy delicious, this sandwich delivers every time. Grab your grill, fire it up, and make it your own. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked just like I am!
Print
Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Salmon BLT with Charred Scallion Mayo is a delicious twist on the classic BLT sandwich. Featuring perfectly grilled salmon seasoned with smoked paprika and herbs, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a flavorful charred scallion mayonnaise, all layered between toasted sourdough bread. A fresh and smoky sandwich perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasonings
- 2 pounds salmon filet
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
Sandwich Components
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 head romaine or green leaf lettuce
Charred Scallion Mayo
- 6 scallions, cleaned and ends trimmed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet or oven until crispy. You can do this step ahead of time and store the bacon in the fridge until ready to assemble.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to a temperature of 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal cooking.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Mix together smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and pepper. Evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the salmon filet.
- Grill the salmon: Place the salmon on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the salmon is opaque and pink in the center. Remove the salmon and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Grill bread and scallions: While the salmon cooks, place the sourdough bread slices on the grill and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until grill marks appear. Grill the scallions for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and softened.
- Make the charred scallion mayo: Slice the grilled scallions and mix them into the mayonnaise. This can be prepared ahead of time for better flavor melding.
- Assemble the sandwich: Cut the salmon into portions that fit your bread slices. Spread about 1 tablespoon of scallion mayo on each slice of bread. On one slice, layer romaine lettuce, grilled salmon, tomato slices, and crispy bacon. Top with the other bread slice. Slice in half and serve. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.
Notes
- You can cook the bacon in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes to get even crispiness with less mess.
- Letting the salmon rest after grilling ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or a stovetop skillet to cook the salmon, bread, and scallions.
- The scallion mayo can be made a few hours ahead to deepen the flavor.
- Use thick-cut sourdough for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Add avocado slices for an extra creamy element to the sandwich if desired.

