If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, healthy, and effortlessly elegant dinner, the Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This gorgeous dish brings together flaky, tender salmon brightened by the zesty freshness of lemon and the delicate, herbaceous notes of fresh dill, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or impressing guests, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet sophisticated in taste, making every bite a joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and accessible, yet each one plays a critical role in building vibrant flavors and luscious textures for your salmon. Freshness and simplicity here are the key to letting the salmon shine through.
- Salmon fillets: Choose 4 fillets, each about 6 ounces, for the perfect portion size filled with rich omega-3 fats and a tender, buttery texture.
- Olive oil: Just 2 tablespoons drizzled on top keep the salmon moist while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Lemon: Thinly sliced lemon provides acidity and brightness that balances the fish’s richness beautifully.
- Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons chopped dill infuse a fragrant, slightly sweet herbal aroma that is classic with salmon.
- Garlic: Two minced cloves contribute a gentle pungency, elevating the savory layers in this dish.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing the natural flavors and adding a little kick.
- Lemon wedges: For serving, adding a fresh squeeze to brighten each bite.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. This small step ensures your salmon cooks evenly and makes clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Arrange the Salmon Fillets
Place your salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Positioning the skin down keeps the flesh tender and prevents overcooking. This simple technique is key to perfectly cooked salmon.
Step 3: Season and Layer Flavors
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the fillets, then sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper for savory depth. Layer the thin lemon slices over the top, followed by a generous sprinkle of fresh dill. These layers add complex flavor without overwhelming the natural taste of the salmon.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout. This timing preserves moisture while giving just enough heat to bring all the flavors together.
Step 5: Serve Hot with Lemon Wedges
Once baked, remove your salmon from the oven and transfer to plates. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges so everyone can add an extra zesty splash if they like.
How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a wonderful way to elevate your presentation. A sprinkle of additional fresh dill, a few lemon zest curls, or a small handful of microgreens can brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to make your meal shine. Think fluffy quinoa, buttery roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette that cuts through the richness of the fish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely touch, serve your baked salmon atop a bed of steamed asparagus or wild rice. You can also plate it with colorful roasted vegetables for an inviting, rainbow-hued meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing so moisture doesn’t build up and make the fillets soggy.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe later, you can freeze cooked fillets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for 10-15 minutes, or warm in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon. Microwaving is possible but can cause uneven heating and a dry texture.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh dill isn’t available, substitute 1 tablespoon of dried dill. The flavor won’t be as vibrant but will still complement the salmon nicely.
Is it necessary to leave the skin on?
While the skin helps keep the salmon moist during baking, you can remove it if you prefer. Just be extra careful when handling the fillets as skinless salmon can be more delicate.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The best indicator is when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye on it toward the end of baking time.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! This recipe is very adaptable. Fresh parsley, thyme, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add new dimensions without overpowering the main flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep because it’s quick to bake and stores well. Pair with quinoa and steamed veggies for balanced meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting and impressive about this Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe that makes it a staple in my kitchen. Its fresh, bright flavors combined with that melt-in-your-mouth texture really make it a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your favorite go-to for a nourishing and tasty dinner that feels special without requiring hours of effort.
Print
Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill recipe offers a simple, flavorful way to prepare tender salmon fillets infused with fresh dill, garlic, and bright lemon slices. Perfect for a healthy American main course, it bakes quickly at 400°F to a flaky, juicy finish, making it an easy and nutritious weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil evenly over each fillet to keep them moist during baking.
- Season: Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper evenly over the salmon fillets for flavor.
- Add Lemon and Dill: Lay thin slices of lemon on top of each salmon fillet, then sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over everything to infuse aromatic herb notes.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve hot with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added citrus punch.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon beforehand in olive oil, lemon juice, and dill for 15 minutes prior to baking.
- Fresh dill can be substituted with 1 tablespoon dried dill if fresh is unavailable.
