If you’re searching for a dish that’s bright, fresh, and incredibly satisfying, you have to try this Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe. It’s a beautifully balanced plate where tender, flaky salmon meets the vibrant zing of lemon and the aromatic freshness of dill, making every bite a burst of flavor. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests without any fuss, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that celebrate the natural goodness of salmon like never before.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in highlighting the salmon’s rich flavor while adding layers of brightness and subtle complexity. Gathering these essentials sets you up for an effortless, delicious result.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): The star of the dish, choose fresh, skin-on for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps keep the salmon moist during baking.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that balances the natural oils of the fish.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Offers intense lemon aroma without extra tartness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a warm, savory depth to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and slight heat that enlivens the salmon.
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional): A touch of sweetness to round out the citrusy flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: The herbaceous highlight that pairs beautifully with lemon and fish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Lemon slices for garnish: Adds visual appeal and a burst of extra citrus on top.
How to Make Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a lively 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, prepare a baking sheet by either lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup or giving it a light grease. This sets the stage for perfectly cooked salmon that won’t stick and makes the whole process smoother.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Lemon-Dill Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and if you love a hint of sweetness, honey. Finally, fold in the chopped fresh dill. This luscious blend is where the magic happens — it infuses the salmon with bright, herbal, and tantalizing flavors.
Step 3: Season and Arrange Salmon Fillets
Place your salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over each piece to enhance their natural taste. Don’t forget this step — proper seasoning is key to turning a simple fillet into a dish that sings.
Step 4: Brush on the Lemon-Dill Mixture
Generously brush the lemon-dill sauce over each salmon fillet, making sure every inch is covered. This step locks in moisture and coats the fish with those bright, fresh flavors that make this Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe such a standout.
Step 5: Add Lemon Slices for Extra Flair
Top each fillet with a thinly sliced lemon round. Not only do these slices bake into the fish for a subtle citrus boost, but they also add a beautiful, sunny garnish that makes your dish look as delightful as it tastes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let your salmon bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque and tender. The timing is just right to keep the salmon moist while letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, give your salmon a couple of minutes to rest. This brief pause allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite stays juicy and full of flavor.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Dish up your perfectly cooked salmon alongside your favorite side dishes, and get ready to enjoy a pampering meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare, but actually went from fridge to fork in under half an hour.
How to Serve Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh dill sprigs, extra lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley can elevate the look and flavor of your dish. These garnishes add an extra pop of color and freshness that complements the salmon’s zesty profile perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think roasted asparagus or green beans for a lovely crunch, fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the juices, or a crisp summer salad to keep things light and refreshing. The versatility here means you can tailor your meal to whatever mood you’re in.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy touch, try plating the salmon over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower puree. Or serve it atop warm pilaf with toasted almonds for extra texture. Even stacking a slice on an open-faced sandwich with avocado and cucumber slices can make this humble recipe feel incredibly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping it chilled properly maintains its flaky texture and keeps the lemon and dill flavors fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’s best enjoyed within one month for optimal flavor and texture. When you thaw it, doing so slowly in the fridge helps preserve its moisture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the delicate fish and dull the bright lemon-dill flavors.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh in this recipe?
While fresh dill provides the best bright and herbal flavor for this Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe, you can substitute dried dill if that’s what you have. Use about one-third of the amount, since dried herbs are more concentrated, but keep in mind the taste won’t be quite as vibrant.
Is it necessary to use honey in the lemon-dill sauce?
Honey is optional and mainly balances the acidity of the lemon with a subtle sweetness. If you prefer a tangier taste or want to keep it sugar-free, feel free to omit it; the recipe is delicious either way.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard on hand?
Dijon mustard adds a nice tang and complexity, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with whole-grain mustard or even a mild yellow mustard. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still tasty.
Can I cook this Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe on the grill?
Absolutely! It’s a wonderful option in warmer months. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well and cook the salmon skin-side down over medium heat. Keep an eye on it, as grilling times vary, but the lemon-dill marinade will still shine on the grill.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
Look for salmon that flakes easily when you gently press with a fork and is opaque throughout but still moist inside. Overcooking will dry it out, so keeping an eye on the time and testing at 12 minutes is a good idea for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites, and I’m sure once you try it, it will be yours too. The marriage of fresh citrus, fragrant dill, and tender salmon creates a meal that’s both comforting and inspired. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, give this recipe a go and watch it become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Print
Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This delicious and healthy Salmon with Lemon and Dill recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and dill. Perfectly baked to retain moisture and flavor, it makes an easy and elegant meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
Marinade & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey if using, and chopped fresh dill to create the lemon-dill marinade.
- Season Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
- Apply Marinade: Brush the lemon-dill mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor.
- Add Lemon Slices: Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon fillets to add both flavor and an attractive presentation.
- Bake Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Rest: Remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes to let juices redistribute and enhance tenderness.
- Serve: Serve the salmon warm with favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Honey is optional and can be omitted for a less sweet marinade.
- Ensure not to overcook the salmon as it can become dry; check for flakiness with a fork to determine doneness.
- Fresh dill can be substituted with dried dill if fresh is unavailable, though fresh provides better flavor.
- For added zest, you can sprinkle some extra lemon juice just before serving.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides like steamed asparagus or quinoa.
