If you are craving a dish that is both effortlessly elegant and bursting with bright, fresh flavors, this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. The perfectly tender salmon fillets are bathed in a luscious garlic-dill butter sauce, while the lemon slices add a vibrant zestiness that elevates every bite. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve when friends come over. Trust me, once you try this combination, the delicate harmony of lemon and dill paired with rich, buttery salmon will keep you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe are straightforward and easy to find, but each one plays a crucial role in building that wonderful balance of taste and texture. From the creamy butter to the aromatic dill and citrusy lemon, these essentials work together to create an unforgettable meal.
- Salmon (1 pound): Fresh, high-quality salmon ensures a moist, flaky centerpiece.
- Salted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and dill flavors.
- Garlic cloves (2, finely minced): Brings subtle pungency that awakens the palate.
- Fresh dill (1 tablespoon, chopped): Provides a fragrant, slightly sweet herbal note.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors of the salmon.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and depth.
- Lemon slices (4): Deliver that fresh, tangy brightness that defines this recipe.
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by warming up your oven to 425℉. This high temperature ensures the salmon cooks quickly and evenly, sealing in moisture while helping the butter sauce to infuse the fish.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Fillets
If you have a whole piece of salmon, slice it into four equal portions of about 4 ounces each, keeping the skin on to lock in flavor and prevent sticking. The skin also crisps up nicely under the heat, adding a delicious texture contrast.
Step 3: Arrange the Salmon in a Baking Dish
Spray a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and to prevent the fish from sticking. Place the fillets skin-side down, spacing them a bit apart for even cooking and airflow.
Step 4: Make and Apply the Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, finely minced garlic, freshly chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Then generously drizzle this aromatic mixture over each fillet, topping each one with a lemon slice for that zesty finish.
Step 5: Bake and Crisp
Cover your baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture during cooking. Bake the salmon in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. For a delightful touch of crispness, remove the foil during the last 2 to 3 minutes to let the edges caramelize slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the salmon is perfectly cooked, serve it immediately. Feel free to garnish with extra fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if you want to brighten the flavors even further. This step brings the dish full circle with a beautiful fresh aroma and taste.
How to Serve Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh dill sprigs and an additional lemon wedge make perfect garnishes for this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe. They not only add visual appeal but also allow everyone to customize the brightness and aroma to their preference right at the table.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like steamed green beans tossed with lemon and olive oil or a crisp cucumber salad. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf complement the rich fish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salmon fillets on a bed of lemon-infused quinoa or alongside colorful roasted vegetables. You could also plate them with a drizzle of the leftover garlic dill butter sauce and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for extra texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Dill Salmon keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to store the fillets separately from any garnishes or sides to maintain freshness.
Freezing
If you want to freeze cooked salmon, wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a preheated oven at 300℉ for about 10 minutes to avoid drying it out. You can also microwave it on a low setting, covered, but be careful not to overcook. A light squeeze of fresh lemon juice upon reheating revitalizes the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Fresh dill is highly recommended for this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe because it offers a bright, lively flavor that dried dill can’t quite match. However, if you need to use dried dill, use about one-third the amount and add it to the melted butter so it has time to infuse.
Is it necessary to keep the salmon skin on?
Keeping the skin on helps keep the salmon moist while baking and results in a deliciously crispy texture that balances the tender flesh. But if you prefer skinless, you can definitely cook it without skin; just watch carefully to prevent overcooking.
Can this recipe be made on the grill instead of in the oven?
Absolutely! This Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe adapts well to grilling. Use a grill basket or foil packets to hold the fillets and lemon slices. Grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes until cooked through, basting with the butter mixture for that same rich flavor.
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
The best choice is wild-caught salmon if available, like sockeye or coho, for a robust flavor. Farmed salmon is fine too and often more budget-friendly. Just make sure the fish is fresh and firm to the touch for the best results.
How can I tell when the salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque pink color throughout. It should still be moist and tender, not dry. Relying on the oven time and removing from heat as soon as it flakes will ensure the perfect texture every time.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend trying this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe enough. It’s one of those rare meals that feels both indulgent and fresh, simple but impressive. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish delivers that cozy, restaurant-quality satisfaction with minimal effort. Give it a go, and I promise it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender salmon fillets baked in a zesty lemon and fresh dill butter sauce. It’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, delivering bright citrus notes and herbaceous freshness in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 pound salmon
Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425℉ (220℃) to ensure a hot environment for perfectly baked salmon.
- Prepare Fillets: If your salmon is not already portioned, slice it into four equal 4-ounce fillets, keeping the skin intact for moisture and flavor.
- Arrange Salmon: Lightly spray a large 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Place each salmon fillet skin-side down in the dish, leaving a small gap between each piece.
- Make Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, finely minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Drizzle this mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
- Add Lemon Slices: Place one lemon slice on top of each salmon fillet, which will infuse the fish with a fresh citrus flavor as it bakes.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. This gentle steaming will cook the fish through and keep it moist.
- Crisp Edges: Remove the aluminum foil during the last 2-3 minutes of baking to allow the edges of the salmon to crisp up slightly for added texture.
- Serve: Serve the salmon immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired, for a bright and aromatic finish.
Notes
- Salmon can be substituted with other fatty fish such as trout or arctic char.
- For a lower sodium option, reduce or omit the added salt and use unsalted butter.
- Ensure not to overcook salmon to maintain a tender and flaky texture.
- Fresh dill is preferred, but dried dill can be substituted at one-third the amount.
- Use lemon juice or zest to enhance citrus flavor further if you prefer.
