If you’re looking to bring a burst of fresh, zesty flavor to your dinner table that’s both elegant and easy, this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe is an absolute winner. The tender, flaky salmon paired with the bright zing of lemon and the herbal brightness of dill creates a dish that’s as vibrant in taste as it is simple to prepare. You’re going to love how quickly it comes together and how impressive it feels when served, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe plays a crucial role—not only in flavor but also in texture and presentation. The list is wonderfully straightforward and lets the salmon shine, while the butter, garlic, and dill create a luscious, aromatic coating.
- 1 pound salmon: Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for optimal flavor and moistness.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted): Adds a rich, creamy base that helps the herbs and garlic meld perfectly into the fish.
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced): Provides a subtle punch that brightens the whole dish without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: The star herb that brings a fresh, slightly grassy note that pairs beautifully with salmon.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors without making the dish salty.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat that complements the buttery sauce.
- 4 lemon slices: They add bright citrus aroma and a lovely visual touch when baked right on top.
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Salmon
Start by heating your oven to a sizzling 425℉. Meanwhile, if your salmon isn’t already portioned, slice it into four equal fillets. Keeping the skin intact is key—it locks in moisture and crisps up beautifully during baking.
Step 2: Arrange Salmon in the Baking Dish
Grab a large 13 by 9-inch baking dish and give it a quick spritz with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Lay the salmon fillets skin-side down, making sure each has a little breathing space so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Whisk the Flavorful Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, finely minced garlic, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. This simple sauce is going to infuse the salmon with buttery, herby goodness that is absolutely irresistible.
Step 4: Drizzle and Add Lemon Slices
Drizzle the butter mixture generously over each fillet, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Top each piece with a lemon slice—it not only boosts the citrusy notes but also looks stunning once baked.
Step 5: Bake Covered, Then Crisp Up
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 12-15 minutes. The foil traps moisture, allowing the salmon to steam gently. Then, remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to let the edges develop a lovely slight crispness without drying out.
Step 6: Serve Fresh and Bright
Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately, perhaps with an extra sprinkle of fresh dill or a squeeze of lemon juice for that fresh finish.
How to Serve Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh dill sprigs and a few thin lemon wedges make delightful garnishes, adding freshness and an inviting look. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the flavor and mouthfeel.
Side Dishes
Pair this Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe with simple sides that complement without overpowering it. Think herb-roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or buttery steamed asparagus. Each side brings balance and brightness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the salmon on a bed of fluffy quinoa or wild rice, and scatter some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds on top. You can also plate it alongside vibrant roasted vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or rainbow carrots, for a burst of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping it sealed helps maintain the aroma and prevents the fish from drying out.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe in a tightly wrapped package or sealed freezer bag. It will keep well for about two months. Just be sure to thaw it gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven (around 275℉) for 10-15 minutes to preserve its moistness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the delicate fish and make the texture rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
While fresh dill is ideal for that bright, lively flavor, you can substitute dried dill—use about one-third of the fresh amount. Just add it during the butter mixture step so it has time to rehydrate.
What if I don’t have lemon slices? Can I use lemon juice instead?
You absolutely can! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salmon before baking adds the necessary citrus punch. Just keep in mind that the slices also add moisture and visual appeal.
Is it necessary to keep the skin on the salmon?
Keeping the skin on helps the salmon hold together during cooking and locks in moisture, resulting in a juicier bite. Plus, crispy skin can be a delicious bonus if you enjoy it!
Can I grill this salmon instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling works wonderfully. Just baste the fillets with the butter-dill mixture and cook skin-side down on medium heat until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily, about 6-8 minutes per side.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. It’s better to undercook slightly and let residual heat finish the job rather than overcook and dry it out.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Dill Salmon Recipe is a beautiful balance of simplicity and flavor—perfect for anyone who loves a quick, fresh, and impressive dinner. It’s a dish that feels thoughtful without the fuss, and once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your weekly rotation. Give it a go, and I promise the lemon and dill combo will win your heart.
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 offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner option featuring tender baked salmon fillets infused with fresh dill, garlic, and a buttery lemon sauce. Perfectly baked for a light yet satisfying meal, it’s ready in just 20 minutes and serves four.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 pound salmon, skin-on
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 it’s hot enough for perfectly baked salmon.
- Prepare Salmon Fillets: If your salmon is not already portioned, slice it into four 4-ounce fillets, keeping the skin intact for moisture and flavor.
- Arrange Fillets: Spray a large 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish, leaving a bit of space between each piece.
- Make Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Coat Fillets: Drizzle the butter sauce evenly over each salmon fillet. Place one lemon slice on top of each fillet for added flavor and aroma.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the salmon moist and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
- Crisp Edges: Remove the foil during the last 2-3 minutes of baking to allow the edges of the salmon to crisp up slightly, enhancing the texture.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for extra brightness.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh salmon fillets with the skin on.
- You may substitute unsalted butter and adjust salt accordingly if you prefer lower sodium.
- If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill can be used, but reduce the amount by half for best flavor balance.
- Check the salmon doneness by ensuring it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete healthy meal.
