Lemon Dill Salmon | Easy, Healthy & Flavorful Recipe
January 10, 2024
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This Lemon Dill Salmon is a light, flavorful dish featuring tender, flaky salmon infused with fresh lemon juice, aromatic dill, and garlic butter. It’s simple to prepare, packed with heart-healthy omega-3s, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal. Serve it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced and delicious plate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 lemon (juice + zest)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for added depth of flavor
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or melted butter), lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cooking Instructions
1. Oven-Baked Method
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush or drizzle the lemon dill mixture evenly over the fillets.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
2. Pan-Seared Method
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes.
- Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes, spooning the lemon dill mixture over the top as it finishes cooking.
3. Grilled Method
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates.
- Grill salmon for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with the lemon dill mixture.
Final Presentation/Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of roasted asparagus, quinoa, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with extra dill and lemon slices for a fresh finish.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Nutritional Benefits
- Calories: ~320 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports heart and brain health
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin D and B12
Grocery List
Protein
- Salmon fillets (2, about 6 oz each)
Produce
- Fresh dill (or dried dill)
- Lemon (1)
- Garlic (2 cloves)
Pantry Staples
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika (optional)
Optional
- Honey or maple syrup
- Red pepper flakes
- Dijon mustard
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Crispy Skin: Pat the salmon dry before cooking and use a hot skillet for a crispy finish.
- Make It Creamy: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with dill and lemon as a sauce.
- Use Foil Packets: Wrap salmon in foil with the marinade for an easy cleanup meal.