Lemon dill salmon is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender, flaky salmon fillets, kissed by the vibrant zest of lemon and fragrant dill, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table in eager anticipation.
This dish brings back memories of family gatherings, where laughter echoed while we enjoyed a feast fit for royalty. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend soirée, lemon dill salmon is the star of any occasion, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lemon dill salmon recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The bright flavors elevate any meal while keeping it healthy and light
- With its stunning presentation and delightful aroma, it’s sure to impress guests at dinner parties
- Versatile enough for grilling or baking, you can enjoy it year-round
I remember the first time I made lemon dill salmon; my family declared it their new favorite! They couldn’t get enough of its zesty goodness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Salmon Fillets: Opt for skin-on fillets for richer flavor and better texture when cooking.
Fresh Dill: Use vibrant green dill for the best flavor; dried dill lacks the same aromatic punch.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled juice just won’t do.
Garlic Cloves: Mince fresh garlic for a fragrant kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps with browning.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings are key; they enhance all the other fabulous flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preparation Time: Gather all your ingredients and tools before starting. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mixing Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper until combined. This will be your zesty marinade.
Marinating Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Let it sit for 15 minutes to soak up those flavors.
Baking Salmon: Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect golden color!
Garnishing & Serving: Once out of the oven, sprinkle some extra fresh dill and lemon zest on top for that final touch. Serve with your favorite sides like asparagus or rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy this delicious lemon dill salmon that will transport you straight to flavor town!
You Must Know
- This lemon dill salmon recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience
- The zesty flavor combines beautifully with the fresh herbs, making it a hit for family dinners and special occasions alike
- Plus, it’s quick to prepare, keeping kitchen chaos at bay
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the salmon skin-side down first for crispiness, then bake it in the oven to finish cooking evenly while maintaining moisture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap dill for parsley or add capers for a briny kick that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lemon dill salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F
- Always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact
- Let the salmon rest after cooking to enhance juiciness and taste
Sharing this lemon dill salmon recipe always brings smiles at our family gatherings. One time, my grandmother declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is saying something in our family!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking to achieve even doneness.
What sides pair well with lemon dill salmon?
Consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a light quinoa salad for balance.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internally.
Lemon Dill Salmon
Lemon dill salmon delivers a burst of fresh flavors that transforms your dinner table into a gourmet experience. This quick and easy recipe features succulent salmon fillets marinated in a zesty blend of lemon and fragrant dill, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its vibrant presentation and delightful aroma, lemon dill salmon is sure to impress your family and guests alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) fresh salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet and generously coat with the marinade. Allow to marinate for 15 minutes.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with extra dill and lemon zest before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
