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If you are searching for a dish that balances fresh, vibrant flavors with effortless preparation, this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender, flaky salmon fillets bathed in a buttery garlic-dill sauce, kissed by zesty lemon slices, make for an unforgettable meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that brightens your plate and warms your heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a dish this delicious, you really only need a handful of ingredients, each carefully chosen to highlight the fresh flavors of the salmon and complement the tangy lemon and fragrant dill. These essentials work beautifully together, bringing texture, richness, and a pop of color to every bite.
- 1 pound salmon: Fresh, skin-on fillets make for juicy, easy-to-handle servings that crisp nicely on the outside.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted): Adds indulgent richness and helps carry flavors throughout the fish.
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that pairs wonderfully with dill.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Bright, herbaceous, and fragrant, dill is key for balancing the lemon and enhancing the salmon.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Seasoning that brings out the natural flavors without overpowering the fish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A gentle heat that rounds out the seasoning.
- 4 lemon slices: Both a garnish and flavor booster, lemon provides crisp acidity that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven up to 425℉, which will allow the salmon to cook quickly while developing a lovely crust near the end. This temperature is perfect for locking in moisture and ensuring an evenly cooked fillet.
Step 2: Portion the Salmon
If you haven’t already, slice your salmon into four equal 4-ounce fillets, ensuring the skin stays on. The skin acts like a natural protective barrier during cooking and crisps up beautifully, adding texture to every mouthful.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, lightly spray a large 13 x 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down with a little breathing room between them so the heat can circulate and cook them evenly.
Step 4: Mix the Flavorful Butter Sauce
Whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This buttery mixture is where the magic happens—it infuses the salmon with rich, savory notes while highlighting the brightness of the dill and the subtle punch of garlic.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Lemon
Drizzle the butter sauce generously over each salmon fillet, ensuring every piece gets an equal share. Then, gently place one lemon slice on top of each fillet—these lemon slices will steam gently during baking, releasing citrus oils that flavor the salmon from above.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 12-15 minutes. To achieve that perfect slight crisp on the edges, remove the foil during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This technique helps the salmon finish with a delicate caramelized texture without drying it out.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, serve the salmon immediately, optionally garnishing with extra fresh dill or a spritz of lemon juice for an added fresh burst. This Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe shines best served fresh and hot from the oven, with all its vibrant flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor of your Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe by topping with a sprinkle of fresh dill or a few lemon wedges. A dash of finely chopped chives or a light drizzle of good olive oil can also add a lovely finishing touch that makes each plate feel special.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides such as steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa pilaf can balance the bright lemon and rich butter sauce wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the salmon over a bed of garlic-infused couscous or atop fluffy cauliflower rice to keep things light and nutrient-packed. For a unique twist, arrange the fillets atop a colorful vegetable medley or inside lettuce wraps for a fresh and fun presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining their delicate flavor and texture without becoming dry.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, leftover cooked salmon can be frozen if necessary. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Label and freeze for up to one month for best quality.
Reheating
To reheat leftover salmon, it’s best to do so gently in the oven at 275℉ for about 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can cause uneven heating and a rubbery texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before preparing the Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Is fresh dill necessary, or can I use dried dill?
Fresh dill provides the brightest, most vibrant flavor, but if dried dill is all you have, use about one-third of the amount and add it to the butter mixture early to allow it to rehydrate and release its aroma.
Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?
Absolutely! Olive oil can be used in place of butter for a lighter version, though you’ll miss out on some of the rich buttery flavor. It will still coat the salmon nicely and carry the garlic and dill flavors well.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. At 425℉, the 12-15 minute cooking time usually ensures perfectly cooked fish, but check by gently testing the thickest piece.
Can this recipe be cooked on the grill?
This Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe is designed for the oven, but you can adapt it for grilling by using foil packets. Place the butter sauce and lemon slices over the salmon on foil, seal it, and grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and satisfying about this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe that makes it a go-to for any occasion. It’s bright, flavorful, incredibly simple, and elegant all at once. I truly hope you give it a try and discover how quickly it can become a beloved favorite at your table too!
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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: Gluten Free
Description
This Lemon Dill Salmon recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to prepare tender salmon fillets baked with a buttery garlic dill sauce and fresh lemon slices. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, the salmon is baked to juicy perfection in under 20 minutes, delivering bright citrus and herbal notes that complement the rich fish beautifully.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets
- 1 pound salmon, cut into four 4-ounce fillets with skin intact
Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 4 lemon slices
- Non-stick cooking spray, for the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the salmon fillets evenly and quickly.
- Prepare the Salmon: If not already portioned, cut the salmon into four equal 4-ounce fillets, keeping the skin on to help hold the fillets together and add flavor during baking.
- Arrange Fillets: Spray a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, then place the salmon fillets inside skin-side down with some space between them for even cooking.
- Make the Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk melted butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Drizzle this mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, then top each with one lemon slice.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, keeping the salmon moist and tender.
- Crisp the Edges: Remove the foil in the last 2-3 minutes of baking to allow the edges of the salmon to crisp up slightly, adding a delightful texture contrast.
- Serve: Plate the salmon immediately and garnish with extra fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Using skin-on fillets helps hold the fish together and adds flavor during baking.
- You can use unsalted butter and adjust salt to taste for a lower sodium version.
- Make sure not to overcook salmon to keep it moist—watch the baking time closely.
- Fresh dill really enhances the flavor, but dried dill can be used in a pinch (reduce to 1 teaspoon).
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
