If you’re searching for a dish that feels both effortlessly elegant and packed with vibrant, fresh flavors, look no further than this Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tender, flaky salmon infused with the bright zest of lemon and the aromatic touch of dill, all gently roasted to perfection. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe brings a wonderful combination of simplicity and sophistication that will definitely impress your taste buds and anyone you share it with.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making our Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a vital role in building a flavor profile that’s fresh, light, and satisfying.
- Salmon fillets: Choose fresh or well-thawed, skin-on for optimal moisture and flavor retention during baking.
- Lemon slices: Fresh lemon adds a zesty brightness and a lovely citrus aroma that complements the rich salmon perfectly.
- Dill: Fresh dill provides a fragrant, herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish with its slightly sweet, grassy flavor.
- Olive oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil keeps the salmon moist and adds a silky smooth texture and depth of flavor.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and patting your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This simple step helps the olive oil and seasoning stick to the fish and promotes even cooking. Place the fillets skin-side down on a lined baking tray for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Season and Add Flavor
Drizzle olive oil generously over the salmon fillets, then lay thin lemon slices evenly on top of each piece. Sprinkle fresh dill over everything, making sure the herbs nestle into the lemon’s creases and the fish’s curves. This layering is what infuses the dish with such bright, fresh flavor.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This timing ensures the salmon becomes tender and flaky without drying out. You’ll know it’s ready when the flesh flakes easily with a fork yet stays juicy and luscious.
How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your salmon with a sprinkle of fresh dill and an extra twist of lemon zest right before eating brightens the presentation and taste. A few fresh dill fronds on top add a delicate herbal touch that looks as lovely as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides like garlic roasted asparagus, a crisp mixed green salad, or fluffy quinoa. Each side complements the salmon’s subtle richness without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant occasion, serve your salmon atop a bed of lightly mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, drizzled with a lemon-dill vinaigrette. Or arrange it on a platter with lemon wedges and sprigs of fresh dill to create a vibrant centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the baked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days, making a perfect quick lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
While fresh baked salmon is always best, you can freeze leftovers tightly wrapped or in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw slowly in the refrigerator for best texture when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your salmon in the oven at 275°F for about 10 minutes or until just heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the fish dry and tough. A low and slow approach helps maintain the luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon beforehand and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere and ensures even cooking.
Is lemon dill the only herb that works for this dish?
While dill is classic and pairs beautifully with the salmon and lemon, fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon can also add a lovely twist if you want to experiment.
Can I cook this recipe on a grill instead of baking?
Yes, grilling salmon with lemon and dill is fantastic too. Use foil or a grill basket to keep the fish tender and prevent sticking. Adjust grill time to about 8–10 minutes depending on thickness.
What side dishes best complement Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Recipe?
Light, fresh sides such as steamed vegetables, mixed greens, or whole grains like barley or couscous work wonderfully, balancing the richness of the salmon with crisp, clean flavors.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still looks moist inside. Overcooking leads to dryness, so baking for about 15 minutes at 400°F is just right for average fillets.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Recipe is one of those lovely dishes that make you feel like you’re treating yourself without any fuss. It’s fresh, flavorful, and comes together quickly, making it perfect for both busy nights and casual entertaining. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen too!
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Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This simple and flavorful Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill recipe features tender salmon fillets baked to perfection with fresh lemon slices and fragrant dill, enhanced by a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect for a healthy and quick meal, it’s a light and delicious way to enjoy seafood.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
Seasonings
- 4 lemon slices
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even cooking of the salmon fillets.
- Prepare the Salmon: Lightly brush each salmon fillet with olive oil on both sides, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Add Lemon and Dill: Place a lemon slice on top of each salmon fillet, then sprinkle the fresh chopped dill evenly over the fillets for aromatic flavor.
- Bake the Salmon: Arrange the salmon fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil, then bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately, pairing with your favorite side dishes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Ensure salmon fillets are of even thickness to promote uniform cooking.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Use fresh dill and lemon slices for the best flavor; dried herbs will not have the same impact.
- Leftover salmon can be refrigerated and used within 2 days for salads or sandwiches.
