Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Sauce

Baked salmon with lemon and dill sauce is a dish that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. It serves not just as a meal but as a reminder of home-cooked comfort. Salmon, with its rich and buttery flavor, paired with the bright tang of fresh lemon and the delightful herbal notes from dill, creates a harmony that brings families together. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or anytime you need a little love on your plate.

The key components of this recipe are simple yet effective: four salmon fillets, a couple of tablespoons of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, a zesty lemon that adds both juice and zest, fresh chopped dill, and minced garlic. Each of these flavors brings its own unique touch to the dish, while together they create a bright, fresh flavor profile that brings joy to your taste buds.

Making this meal couldn’t be easier. First, you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, you simply place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. After seasoning with salt and pepper, you prepare a lemon-dill sauce by mixing lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, and garlic in a bowl. Pour this delightful mixture over the salmon, bake for just 15 to 20 minutes, and voilà! You have a meal that flaked easily with a fork and is bursting with flavor.

This baked salmon recipe shines for many occasions. It’s ideal for chilly nights when you want something warm and nourishing. You could even whip it up for a potluck or a family gathering, where it can sit alongside a variety of side dishes, allowing everyone to savor the deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Sauce

• Quick: This dish takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Simple Ingredients: Only six key components make it easy to whip up anytime.
• Healthy: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fresh ingredients.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon, dill, and salmon offers a fresh and bright taste.
• Versatile: Pairs well with many side dishes, making it adaptable to any meal.

Salmon Selection Tips

When selecting salmon for this recipe, freshness is key. Look for fillets that have a bright, vivid pink color and moist texture. Avoid any with a dull appearance or an uneven color. Fresh salmon should smell like the ocean, not fishy. If possible, purchase wild-caught salmon as it often has a stronger flavor and firmer texture than farmed varieties. Check with your local fishmonger to ensure you’re getting the best available product.

Options for Substitutions

• Herbs: Swap out fresh dill for fresh parsley or basil for a different taste.
• Garlic: Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.
• Oil: Substitute olive oil with melted butter or avocado oil.
• Lemon: Lime juice and zest can replace the lemon for a zesty twist.
• Fish: Use trout, sea bass, or even chicken breasts if salmon isn’t available.
• Veggies: For a vegetarian option, try cooking cauliflower steaks with the same lemon-dill sauce.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

Overcooking the salmon is a common pitfall. Make sure to check the fish around the 15-minute mark. You want the salmon to flake easily but still remain moist. If you leave it in the oven for too long, it can dry out and lose its delightful texture.

Another mistake is not seasoning appropriately. A sprinkle of salt and pepper can significantly enhance the flavor of your salmon. Don’t skip this step; it brings everything together.

Lastly, be cautious about pouring the lemon-dill mixture on the salmon too early. It’s best to add it right before baking. This preserves the freshness of the herbs and the zing of the lemon, which can diminish if left on the fish too long.

What to Serve With Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Sauce?

Baked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a healthy option, consider serving it alongside roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. If you want something heartier, garlic mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad work wonderfully. A simple green salad can also complement the dish well, adding freshness and crunch.

Storage Instructions

Store: In the refrigerator, baked salmon can last for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Freeze: If you’d like to store it longer, freeze the salmon for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap the fish tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic.

Reheat: To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can gently microwave it on low power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 800-900
• Protein: 80-100g
• Fat: 40-55g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Make the Lemon-Dill Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, and minced garlic. Stir well to mix all the flavors together.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over Salmon

Pour the lemon-dill mixture evenly over the seasoned salmon fillets. Make sure that each piece gets a good coating of the sauce for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want the salmon to be just cooked through, so check for flakiness around the 15-minute mark.

Step 6: Serve with Lemon Wedges

Once done, remove the salmon from the oven. Serve warm, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired, for an extra burst of freshness.

In this baked salmon with lemon and dill sauce recipe, you have all the elements for a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. I invite you to try it out for yourself and share your experience or any variations you come up with. Explore more heartfelt recipes on our site to keep your cooking journey exciting!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This baked salmon holds well in the fridge and can be made ahead for quick meals throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some elements in advance, like the lemon-dill sauce, and then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

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