Salmon with Lemon and Dill is a timeless, elegant dish that celebrates the clean, fresh flavors of the sea. The tender, flaky salmon pairs beautifully with the brightness of lemon and the delicate aroma of fresh dill, creating a light yet satisfying meal. This classic combination brings out the natural richness of the fish while keeping it refreshing and wholesome.
Salmon with Lemon and Dill:
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish is simple to prepare and consistently delicious. Whether baked, pan-seared, or grilled, the result is always moist, flavorful salmon infused with citrus and herb notes that delight every palate.
History:
Lemon and dill have long been staples in Scandinavian and Mediterranean cooking, where fish — especially salmon — plays a central role in the diet. Dill’s fresh, slightly sweet flavor complements seafood perfectly, while lemon adds acidity to balance the salmon’s richness. Over the centuries, this pairing has become a beloved culinary classic, found in everything from Nordic gravlax to modern baked salmon dishes worldwide.
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Salmon with Lemon and Dill
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 lemon (½ sliced, ½ juiced)
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp white wine or vegetable broth for moisture
Instructions
- Preheat oven:Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare salmon:Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil or butter, and season with salt and pepper.
- Add flavor:Rub minced garlic over the salmon, sprinkle with fresh dill, and drizzle lemon juice over the top. Place a few lemon slices on each fillet.
- Bake:Bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center.
- Serve:Garnish with extra fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve warm with steamed vegetables, rice, or salad.
Notes
- Wild-caught salmon offers the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overbake — salmon should stay moist and tender.
- For added richness, top with a spoonful of Greek yogurt-dill sauce.
- Fresh dill is preferred over dried for a brighter flavor.
- Great served with roasted potatoes, asparagus, or quinoa.
Tips for Lemon and Dill:
- Add a splash of white wine or broth to keep salmon juicy while baking.
- You can grill or pan-sear instead of baking for a crisp edge.
- Combine dill and lemon zest with softened butter for a quick “dill butter” topping.
- Let salmon rest for 3–5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
- For an elegant touch, serve with a creamy lemon-dill sauce on the side.
FAQs for Salmon with Lemon and Dill:
Q1: Can I use dried dill?
Yes, but use only 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Q2: Can I cook this in foil?
Absolutely — foil baking locks in flavor and keeps the salmon moist.
Q3: What side dishes pair best?
Try garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a cucumber-dill salad.
Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep and marinate the salmon up to 8 hours ahead, then bake just before serving.
Q5: How do I know when salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Conclusion:
Salmon with Lemon and Dill is the definition of simple elegance — a dish that’s light, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavor. The citrusy zing of lemon and the herbal sweetness of dill perfectly complement the richness of salmon, creating a meal that’s as comforting as it is refined. Ideal for quick dinners or classy entertaining, this recipe never fails to impress.