Lemon Dill Salmon
If you are looking for a elegant, nutrient-dense dinner that comes together effortlessly, this Lemon Dill Salmon is the ultimate recipe. It features tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection under a blanket of rich butter, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and bright, aromatic dill. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
This simple seafood dish cooks in under 20 minutes, making it sophisticated enough to impress dinner guests but easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight! [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatably Flaky: Baking salmon at the right temperature locks in its natural oils, resulting in a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- The Perfect Herb Pairing: Fresh dill provides a clean, grassy, and slightly citrusy punch that cuts beautifully through the richness of the fish.
- Nutritious and Fast: Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, it delivers a wholesome meal in record time. [11, 12, 13, 14, 15]
Ingredients You Need
This recipe relies on fresh, clean ingredients to highlight the natural flavor of the salmon. [16, 17, 18, 19]
- Salmon Fillets - 4 center-cut salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on or skin-off, patted dry.
- Butter - 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted (or extra virgin olive oil for a lighter option).
- Lemon Juice & Zest - 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of fresh zest from 1 large lemon, plus extra slices for baking.
- Fresh Dill - 3 tablespoons of fresh dill, finely chopped and divided. Fresh dill is mandatory for the best flavor!
- Garlic - 3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced.
- Salt & Black Pepper - ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of coarse black pepper to season. [20, 21, 22, 23, 24]
How To Make Lemon Dill Salmon
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for effortless cleanup, and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. [25, 26, 27, 28, 29]
Step 2: Mix the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of the chopped fresh dill (save the remaining tablespoon for serving). [30]
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving an inch of space between each piece. If the fillets have skin, place them skin-side down. Pat the tops dry with a paper towel. Season the top of each fillet evenly with the salt and black pepper. [31, 32, 33, 34, 35]
Step 4: Sauce and Top
Spoon the lemon-garlic dill butter generously over each salmon fillet, making sure the top of the fish is completely coated. Top each fillet with a fresh, thin slice of lemon. This adds a beautiful presentation and infuses extra moisture as it bakes. [36, 37, 38, 39, 40]
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. Remove from the oven, garnish with the remaining fresh dill, and serve immediately! [41, 42, 43, 44, 45]
Chef Tips for Success
- Do Not Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly. Check it at the 12-minute mark by pressing a fork gently into the thickest part. If the flesh flakes easily along the natural lines, it is ready. [46, 47, 48, 49, 50]
- Pat the Fish Dry: Always use paper towels to dry the surface of the salmon before adding seasonings. Excess moisture will steam the fish rather than bake it, preventing the herb butter from sticking. [51, 52, 53, 54, 55]
- Leave the Skin On: Even if you don't plan on eating the skin, cooking salmon skin-side down acts as a natural barrier against the hot pan, locking in the juices and keeping the fish incredibly moist. [56, 57, 58, 59]
What To Serve With Lemon Dill Salmon
- Grains: Serve it alongside a bed of fluffy quinoa, wild rice pilaf, or a light lemon herb couscous.
- Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus spears, steamed broccoli, or garlic-charred green beans.
- Salads: Complement the rich fish with a crisp cucumber dill salad or a light Mediterranean salad tossed in a vinaigrette. [60, 61, 62, 63, 64]
