There are few things as satisfying as a perfectly cooked salmon fillet—flaky, tender, and rich with flavor. This lemon dill salmon takes it to the next level with a bright, herbaceous sauce that’s as simple as it is elegant. The combination of fresh lemon, aromatic dill, and buttery richness complements the natural flavor of the salmon without overwhelming it.
Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious, yet impressive enough for company. Serve it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Dill Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Lemon Dill Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh dill sprigs
- Steamed asparagus, green beans, or roasted potatoes
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and rub to coat. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
3. Bake the Salmon: Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 125°F to 130°F (52°C to 54°C) for medium. Thicker fillets may require additional time.
4. Make the Lemon Dill Butter Sauce: While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant—do not let it brown. Remove from heat. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh dill, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Serve: Transfer the baked salmon to serving plates or a platter. Spoon the lemon dill butter sauce over each fillet. Garnish with additional fresh dill and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with steamed asparagus or roasted potatoes.
This Lemon Dill Salmon is a bright, fresh, and elegant dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
