Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my favorite go-to dish: Lemon Dill Salmon! It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate. The refreshing flavors of zesty lemon and aromatic dill just dance together, making every bite feel like a special occasion. I love whipping this up for family dinners because it’s not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrients. Seriously, salmon is such a powerhouse of protein and healthy fats! I remember one Sunday, my family gathered around the table, and as soon as I served this dish, everyone was raving about how good it smelled. It’s those moments that make cooking so special, and trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your new favorite too!
Ingredients List
To make my delightful Lemon Dill Salmon, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 salmon fillets (fresh, if possible!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
These ingredients are not only easy to find but also bring out the vibrant flavors of the dish. And don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste; cooking is all about making it your own!
How to Prepare Lemon Dill Salmon
Getting your Lemon Dill Salmon just right is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because it helps the salmon cook evenly and get that perfect flaky texture we all love!
Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. This marinade is where all the magic happens! Make sure everything is well combined to coat the salmon beautifully.
Arrange the Salmon
Next, place your salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This not only makes for easier cleanup but also helps to keep the fish from sticking. Give each fillet a generous brush of the marinade!
Bake the Salmon
Now, pop that baking sheet into the oven and let the salmon bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and turns a lovely, opaque color. Serve it up with fresh lemon wedges and maybe some extra dill for that extra zing!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for a serving of my Lemon Dill Salmon. Each fillet packs approximately 250 calories, 14 grams of fat (with 2 grams of saturated fat), and a whopping 25 grams of protein! Plus, it’s low in carbs, making it a fantastic healthy choice for any meal.
Tips for Success
To really nail your Lemon Dill Salmon, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First off, always use the freshest ingredients you can find—fresh salmon and herbs make a world of difference in flavor. Don’t rush the cooking time; salmon is best when it’s flaky but still moist, so keep an eye on it as it bakes. If you’re unsure, use a fork to check for flakiness around the 12-minute mark. And if you want to elevate the dish even further, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest on top before serving. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
Variations on Lemon Dill Salmon
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Lemon Dill Salmon, I’ve got some tasty ideas for you! First, try swapping out the dill for fresh parsley or even basil if you’re in the mood for something a bit different. You could also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick! Another fun twist is to incorporate a touch of honey into the marinade for a sweet and savory flavor explosion. Don’t forget about citrus—orange juice can bring a lovely sweetness that complements the salmon beautifully. Experimenting with these variations can make each meal feel brand new and exciting!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my Lemon Dill Salmon, I love to keep it fresh and vibrant! A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is the perfect companion. You could also serve it with a side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli to add some lovely color and crunch. If you’re feeling a little indulgent, consider fluffy quinoa or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up those delicious lemony juices. And don’t forget about a nice, crusty bread to round out the meal! Each of these sides complements the salmon beautifully, making for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to cook Lemon Dill Salmon?
It typically takes about 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to cook the salmon perfectly, but keep an eye on it as cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Can I substitute the salmon with another fish?
Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with other fish like trout or cod. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for thinner fillets.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Lemon Dill Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s great cold on a salad or reheated gently in the oven!
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Use about one teaspoon of dried dill for this recipe, but fresh really elevates the flavor.
What sides pair well with Lemon Dill Salmon?
Some fantastic sides include steamed vegetables, a light salad, or even a grain like quinoa or brown rice to soak up all that delicious lemony goodness!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes section!
Learn more about the health benefits of salmon here.
Print
Lemon Dill Salmon: 5 Ways to Brighten Your Dinner
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Diabetic
Description
A refreshing and flavorful dish featuring salmon with lemon and dill.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until salmon is cooked through.
- Serve with lemon wedges and extra dill if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for best results.
- Adjust seasoning as per your taste.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Lemon Dill Salmon, Salmon Recipe, Healthy Salmon