Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
For a refreshing and delightful holiday dish, bake salmon fillets with lemon, dill, and garlic for a zesty touch.
As I bask in the vibrant colors of fall in New York City, with trees turning shades of gold and crimson, I eagerly anticipate the seasonal gatherings that this time of year brings. Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners are just around the corner, and while I love a good hearty roast, sometimes I crave something lighter yet equally delightful. That’s where this Lemon Dill Salmon recipe comes in—it’s a perfect dish that balances zest and freshness, making it a welcome addition to any holiday table.
A Light Holiday Delight
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light yet flavorful, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 15 minutes.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart and brain health.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with salads or roasted vegetables.
- Fresh herbs elevate the dish, making it a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Lemon Dill Salmon, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (preferably wild-caught)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon (Step-by-Step)
This Lemon Dill Salmon recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare. Follow these easy steps to create a delightful dish.
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon will bake evenly while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh dill. The moment the ingredients mix, an intoxicating citrus aroma wafts through the kitchen, setting the tone for the dish.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Place your salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. Drizzle the marinade over the fillets, ensuring each one is generously coated. I love to use a silicone brush for this step, as it allows me to spread that vibrant mixture evenly over the fish. Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper on top!
Step 4: Bake the Salmon
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the magic happen! Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily when poked with a fork. The visual transformation is stunning, with the salmon taking on a beautiful golden hue.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and squeeze some extra lemon juice over the top. Serve your Lemon Dill Salmon right away with lemon wedges. I love pairing it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using frozen salmon instead of fresh, wild-caught salmon to ensure better texture and flavor.
- Overcooking the salmon, which can result in a dry texture instead of the desired tender flakiness.
- Neglecting seasoning; be sure to use enough salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Modify the herbs: Experiment with parsley or thyme if fresh dill isn’t available.
- Try grilling the salmon for a delicious smoky flavor; use a grill mat or foil to prevent losing any fillets.
- Add vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes on the same tray to infuse additional flavor and color.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
- For the best results, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after baking before serving.
Variations
- Substitute fresh dill with parsley, thyme, or tarragon.
- Add a splash of white wine to the marinade for a different flavor profile.
- Mix in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
- Use lemon pepper seasoning in place of salt and pepper for an extra zing.
- Incorporate honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
How to Serve
- Serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of citrus.
- Pair with a light salad for a fresh and balanced meal.
- Accompany with roasted vegetables for a wholesome side dish.
- Enjoy cold atop a fresh salad for a refreshing option.
- Consider serving alongside quinoa or rice for a filling meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven to preserve the flaky texture or enjoy cold atop a fresh salad.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may suffer after thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through testing this Lemon Dill Salmon recipe, I discovered how simple ingredients can transform an everyday meal into something special, perfect for holiday feasts. The addition of fresh herbs elevates the dish and makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 · Serving Size: 1 fillet
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 23g protein · 0g carbs · 17g fat
Zesty Lemon Dill Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh dill.
- Place salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle marinade over them, coating each fillet well. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven, squeeze extra lemon juice over the top, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
While you can use frozen salmon, fresh, wild-caught salmon is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
2. How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily when poked with a fork. It should have a slight jiggle in the center when you pull it out of the oven.
3. Can I substitute fresh dill with dried dill?
Yes, you can use dried dill in place of fresh dill. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
4. What can I serve with Lemon Dill Salmon?
Lemon Dill Salmon pairs wonderfully with light salads, roasted vegetables, or even grains like quinoa or rice.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can enjoy it cold in a salad or gently reheat it in the oven.
