This Lemon Dill Salmon is a bright and tasty dish that’s super easy to make. Just seasoned salmon baked to perfection with fresh lemon and dill brings life to your dinner!
Nothing beats that zesty aroma filling the kitchen! I love serving it with some rice or veggies for a complete meal. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. However, you can also use frozen salmon if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw it properly before cooking!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the salmon. Feel free to substitute with melted butter, avocado oil, or even a light sesame oil for a different flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives a vibrant taste. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always better. You can also use lime juice for a different twist.
Dill: Fresh dill has a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried dill will do; just use about one-third the amount. Alternatively, parsley or basil can give a different but delicious flavor profile.
Heavy Cream/Sour Cream: This optional ingredient adds creaminess. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or skip it altogether. You can even use a plant-based cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do You Bake Salmon for the Best Results?
Getting perfectly baked salmon relies on gentle cooking. Here’s how to ensure it’s fork-tender:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature. A hot oven helps cook the salmon quickly without drying it out.
- Be mindful of cooking time—12-15 minutes usually does the trick, but thicker fillets may take longer.
- Check for doneness by gently poking the salmon. It should flake easily with a fork and look opaque.
If the salmon is browning too much on top but isn’t cooked through, you can cover it loosely with foil to finish cooking without burning.
Lemon Dill Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream (optional, for the sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Dill Salmon recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Overall, you can have this flavorful dish ready in just under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon will cook evenly. Grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This marinade will add tons of flavor to your salmon!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. Use a brush or spoon to generously coat each fillet with the lemon dill mixture. Make sure they are well-covered for the best taste.
4. Add Lemon Slices:
Now, arrange the thin slices of lemon on top of and around the salmon fillets. This adds a beautiful presentation and extra lemon flavor as it bakes.
5. (Optional) Add Cream:
If you want a creamy sauce, pour the heavy cream or dollops of sour cream around the fillets. It will create a lovely sauce in the baking dish as it cooks.
6. Bake the Salmon:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon; it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle extra fresh dill over the top for a garnish. Serve the salmon right away with your choice of sides, like steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This recipe yields tender salmon with a bright, fresh lemon and dill flavor that’s complemented by a light sauce and savory garlic notes. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Fillets?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen salmon, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill works as a substitute. Just use about one-third the amount, since dried herbs tend to be more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh parsley or basil can provide a different yet flavorful twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled first before sealing. You can reheat it gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the lemon dill marinade and coat the salmon fillets in advance, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bake it fresh for the best texture!
