This Lemon Dill Baked Salmon is the perfect combination of bright, fresh flavors and tender, flaky fish. If you’re looking for a healthy and elegant meal that’s incredibly easy to make, you’ve found it. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it’s impressive enough to serve to guests. The simple lemon and dill sauce enhances the natural flavor of the salmon without overpowering it.
Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a choice you can feel good about. Let’s dive into how to make this simple and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Dill Baked Salmon
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy & Flavorful: Salmon is a powerhouse of nutrients, and the fresh lemon and dill create a vibrant, delicious flavor profile.
- Versatile: It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to fluffy rice.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight family dinner but elegant enough for a special occasion. For another amazing salmon dish, try this Marry Me Salmon recipe.
Key Ingredients
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each. You can use skin-on or skinless.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds flavor and helps keep the salmon moist.
- Fresh Dill: Fresh dill is essential for the best flavor. Its bright, slightly grassy notes are the star of the show.
- Lemons: You’ll need both the zest and juice for a multi-layered citrus flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent, aromatic base.
- Salt & Pepper: To season the fish and enhance all the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Lemon Dill Baked Salmon is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.
- Preheat and Prep: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel; this helps the skin get crispy if you’ve left it on.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season them generously on all sides with salt and black pepper.
- Apply the Sauce: Spoon the lemon dill mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Arrange a few thin lemon slices on top of each fillet for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) at its thickest part.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Salmon
Want to ensure your Lemon Dill Baked Salmon is flawless? Here are a few expert tips.
- Don’t Overcook: This is the most important rule for cooking salmon. Keep a close eye on it and check for doneness at the 12-minute mark. Overcooked salmon can be dry.
- Use Fresh Herbs: While you can use dried dill in a pinch, fresh dill provides a much brighter and more robust flavor.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Removing excess moisture from the surface of the fish allows it to bake evenly and promotes a better texture.
- Line Your Baking Sheet: Using parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup an absolute breeze. If you love easy dinner ideas, you should also check out this dump-and-bake chicken and rice casserole.
What to Serve with Lemon Dill Salmon
This baked salmon is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with many side dishes. For a light and healthy meal, serve it with a simple green salad or steamed asparagus. It’s also delicious with Greek Lemon Potatoes (coming soon) or a bed of fluffy quinoa. For a heartier option, a creamy pasta like Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti (coming soon) complements the citrus notes perfectly.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to use a gentle method to avoid drying it out. Place the salmon in a covered, oven-safe dish and warm it in a 275°F (135°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also flake the cold leftovers and add them to salads or pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can prepare the lemon dill sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just place the salmon on the baking sheet, add the sauce, and bake.
You can, but fresh dill is highly recommended for the best flavor. If you must use dried, use about one-third of the amount called for, so roughly 1.5 to 2 teaspoons.
The best way to tell is by using a fork to gently press on the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s done. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).
This is a matter of personal preference! The skin can help protect the fish from overcooking and gets nicely crisped. If you prefer no skin, you can buy skinless fillets or easily remove the skin after baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to prevent it from drying out.
The Best Lemon Dill Baked Salmon Recipe
Lemon Dill Baked Salmon (The BEST Easy Recipe!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Season the salmon fillets generously on all sides with salt and black pepper.
- Spoon the lemon dill mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Top each fillet with a few thin lemon slices.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) at its thickest part.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients: For the best and brightest flavor, use fresh dill and fresh lemon juice.
Share This Recipe!
If you love this simple and delicious Lemon Dill Baked Salmon recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Pin it to your favorite dinner board on Pinterest so you can always find it.
