Baked salmon with lemon and dill sauce is nothing short of pure comfort. This dish is an easy, flavorful way to enjoy a nutritious meal, perfect for any occasion—from a quiet dinner at home to a festive gathering. The succulent salmon fillets, paired with the refreshing brightness of lemon and the earthy undertones of dill, create a harmony that’s both satisfying and uplifting. Trust me when I say this is a dish your family will love.
The key components of this recipe are straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of any skill level. We are using 4 fresh salmon fillets, drizzled with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. A single lemon adds both juice and zest, while fresh dill offers its fragrant touch. A sprinkle of salt and pepper rounds out the flavor profile, enhancing the natural richness of the salmon. Finally, lemon slices are used for garnish, adding a delightful touch to the presentation.
The method for preparing this baked salmon is just as simple. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms, arrange the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. A quick mix of the olive oil, lemon juice, zest, dill, salt, and pepper provides the dressing, which you pour and spread evenly over the salmon. Bake this in the oven for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes beautifully with a fork. When it’s ready, garnish with lemon slices and an extra sprinkle of dill, making your plate look as good as it tastes.
This recipe is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something cozy to eat or a simple yet elegant dish for a potluck. It showcases the beauty of baking while letting the salmon shine, making it a wonderful option for both casual and more special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Sauce
- Quick: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already.
- Healthy Meal: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this a nutritious choice.
- Comfort Food: The bright flavors of lemon and dill add a fresh twist that elevates a classic favorite.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Easy to prepare, beautiful on the plate, and delicious—what’s not to love?
Salmon Selection Tips
When buying salmon, freshness is key. Look for fillets that have a vibrant pink or orange color and are firm to the touch. The flesh should bounce back when pressed. If you can, select wild-caught salmon over farm-raised, as it often has a better flavor and texture. Don’t hesitate to ask your fishmonger about the best options available. Avoid fillets that have a fishy odor or are discolored, as these are indicators of age.
Options for Substitutions
- Swap olive oil for avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
- Use lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a tropical twist.
- Replace dill with fresh parsley, tarragon, or basil for variety.
- For a richer sauce, mix in a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- If you want a seafood alternative, trout or halibut works well with the same seasonings.
- You can also use seasoned bread crumbs on top of the salmon for extra texture.
Watch Out for These Mistakes
One common pitfall is overcooking the salmon. It’s easy to let it sit in the oven for too long, but salmon can dry out quickly. Remember, it should be just firm to the touch and flake easily with a fork when done.
Another mistake is not seasoning the dish adequately. While the recipe mentions salt and pepper, don’t be shy—taste your seasoning mixture and adjust it to your liking before pouring it onto the fish.
Also, pay attention to the order of operations. Mix your olive oil, lemon, and dill before pouring it over the salmon. Adding ingredients in the correct sequence ensures that every flavor gets the chance to mingle and permeate the fish.
Lastly, avoid using a baking sheet that’s too crowded. If the fillets are too close together, they won’t cook evenly. Make sure there’s space between each piece of salmon for even cooking.
What to Serve With Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Sauce?
Baked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a light, fresh salad of mixed greens drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, complement the flavors well. For a heartier option, try fluffy quinoa or fragrant rice pilaf. Each of these sides enhances the experience, making your meal a well-rounded delight.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep any leftover salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked salmon for 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container.
Reheat: To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave. For stovetop, place it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to help retain moisture. In the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel and warm in 30-second intervals.
Recipe Info
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 500-600
- Protein: 50-60g
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 2-5g
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will make cleanup easy and help prevent the salmon from sticking.
Step 2: Arrange Salmon Fillets
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced evenly to allow for even cooking.
Step 3: Mix Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk it together until well blended.
Step 4: Dress the Salmon
Pour the mixture over the salmon fillets gently. Use a spoon to help spread the sauce evenly over each piece, ensuring that each fillet is well coated.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the salmon for about 12 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork; it should be opaque and flake easily when ready.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional dill. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors.
In summary, this baked salmon with lemon and dill sauce is an easy, flavorful option that your family will adore. I encourage you to try this recipe, share your thoughts, and explore similar dishes for your future meals. Cooking can be an enjoyable experience, and I hope this dish enhances your time in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before continuing with the recipe for the best results.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! This baked salmon recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and season the salmon in advance. Just bake it right before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Print
Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A flavorful and nutritious dish featuring succulent salmon fillets paired with lemon and dill—perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, salt, and pepper; whisk until blended.
- Pour the sauce over the salmon fillets and spread it evenly.
- Bake the salmon for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with lemon slices and additional dill before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze for 2-3 months if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 55g
- Cholesterol: 70mg