This Lemon Dill Salmon is a bright and tasty dish that’s quick to make! The fresh flavors of lemon and dill perfectly pair with the tender salmon, making it a real treat.
I love how easy it is to whip this up on busy nights. Just pop it in the oven, and in no time, dinner is ready. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing! 🍋🐟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for this dish, but you can use frozen fillets if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. If you prefer, trout or another fish would work well too!
Olive Oil or Butter: I like using olive oil for its light flavor, but melted butter adds richness. You can even use avocado oil if you want something milder with a higher smoke point.
Dill: Fresh dill is the star here for that vibrant taste. If you don’t have fresh dill, dry dill works in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated. You might also try parsley or tarragon for a different twist!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is best, but you can substitute with bottled lemon juice if it’s all you have. For a unique flavor, lime juice works too!
How Do I Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon to perfection can be tricky, but a few tips can help! The goal is tender, flaky fish. Keep an eye on the time; typically, it takes 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Check for doneness: Salmon is ready when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- If possible, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature—145°F (63°C) is the target.
- Let the salmon rest for a minute after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps it moist.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Dill Salmon! It’s simple, healthy, and satisfying! 🍽️
Lemon Dill Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Dill Salmon takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this meal ready in about 25-30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mixed Flavor Goodness:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, dried oregano (if you’re using it), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This mixture is going to add so much flavor to your salmon!
3. Place the Salmon:
Now, take your salmon fillets and place them in the baking dish, skin-side down. Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each fillet with the lemon dill mixture you just made.
4. Add Some Zing:
Lay the thin lemon slices on top of each salmon fillet. This will infuse even more lemony goodness into your dish while cooking!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake the salmon for about 12 to 15 minutes. It’s ready when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, so keep an eye on it as it cooks!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the salmon out of the oven and sprinkle some extra fresh dill on top for color and flavor. If you like, add extra lemon wedges for serving, too.
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your Lemon Dill Salmon immediately with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
This recipe gives you tender, flavorful salmon with bright citrus and fragrant dill notes, making it a perfect choice for a nutritious and elegant meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely first. The best way to thaw salmon is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the sealed salmon in a bowl of cold water for about an hour until it’s thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, you can use dried dill as a substitute. However, since dried herbs are more concentrated, use about one-third of the amount. Alternatively, you could try fresh parsley or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Absolutely! You can grill the salmon instead of baking it. Preheat your grill to medium heat, and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the salmon for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until it’s cooked through. Just be cautious with the lemon slices, as they can burn quickly on the grill.