Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter Sauce: Elegant Dinner Dish

Indulge in a culinary delight with our recipe for Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter Sauce. This elegant dish features tender salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with a luscious dill and lemon butter sauce. Bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, this salmon dish is sure to impress your taste buds and elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is a surefire way to delight your senses and satisfy your cravings for a delicious seafood entrée.

Baked salmon is a versatile and nutritious option that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, buttery texture and mild flavor, salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of herbs and seasonings. In this recipe, fresh dill and tangy lemon combine to create a bright and flavorful sauce that complements the natural sweetness of the salmon. By baking the salmon fillets in the oven, you’ll lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in tender and flaky fish that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to add more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter Sauce is a delicious and nutritious choice that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. You can use wild-caught or farm-raised salmon, depending on your preferences and availability. Look for salmon fillets that are firm to the touch and have a bright, vibrant color. Remove any pin bones from the fillets using tweezers or ask your fishmonger to do it for you. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious choice for any meal.
Fresh Dill: Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor and aroma to the lemon butter sauce, giving it a fresh and herbaceous quality. Chop the dill finely before adding it to the sauce to ensure even distribution of flavor. If you can’t find fresh dill, you can use dried dill as a substitute, although the flavor may not be as vibrant. Dill pairs beautifully with seafood and citrus flavors, making it the perfect addition to this salmon dish.
Lemon: Lemon zest and juice add brightness and acidity to the butter sauce, balancing out the richness of the salmon. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor and aroma. You can also use lemon slices or wedges for garnish to add visual appeal to the dish. Lemon not only enhances the flavor of the salmon but also helps tenderize the fish and prevent it from drying out during baking.
Butter: Butter adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, giving it a velvety texture and mouthfeel. To manage the quantity of salt in the meal, use unsalted butter. You can also use clarified butter or ghee for a richer and nuttier flavor. Butter is a classic ingredient in seafood dishes, adding flavor and moisture to the fish while enhancing its natural sweetness.
Garlic: Garlic adds depth and complexity to the butter sauce, infusing it with savory and aromatic notes. Mince or finely chop the garlic cloves before adding them to the sauce for even distribution of flavor. Garlic pairs well with seafood and herbs, adding a punch of flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the salmon.
Salt and Pepper: To bring out the natural tastes of the salmon fillets, season them liberally with salt and pepper. Seasoning the salmon before baking ensures that it’s well seasoned throughout and adds depth of flavor to the dish. You can also sprinkle additional salt and pepper over the sauce for added seasoning and balance.
Optional Garnishes: Garnish the finished dish with fresh dill sprigs, lemon zest, or chopped parsley for a decorative touch and added flavor. These garnishes add a pop of color and freshness to the dish, making it even more visually appealing and appetizing.

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Season the salmon generously with salt and pepper, ensuring that it’s evenly coated on all sides. If desired, you can also drizzle the salmon with a little olive oil for extra moisture and flavor.
Bake the Salmon: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. Take care not to overcook the salmon because it can get harsh and dry.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: While the salmon is baking, prepare the lemon butter sauce.Melt the butter in a small saucepan over a medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Add the Dill and Lemon: Once the garlic is golden brown, add the chopped fresh dill and lemon zest to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the dill is wilted and the lemon zest is fragrant. After turning off the heat, add the lemon juice and mix. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the Salmon: Once the salmon is cooked through, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the salmon fillets, making sure to coat them evenly. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs, lemon zest, or chopped parsley if desired

. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter Sauce!

Serving Suggestions:

Roasted Vegetables: Serve the Baked Salmon with a side of roasted vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Roasted asparagus, broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors of the salmon and add texture and color to the plate. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Pair the Baked Salmon with herb-roasted potatoes for a hearty and comforting side dish. Toss baby potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until golden brown and crispy. The crispy potatoes add texture and flavor to the meal, making it even more delicious and satisfying.
Mixed Green Salad: Serve the Baked Salmon with a simple mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and balanced meal. The crisp, fresh greens provide a contrast to the richness of the salmon and butter sauce, making it a perfect palate cleanser between bites. You can use a variety of greens such as spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce, and toss them with a simple dressing made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Wine Pairing: Pair the Baked Salmon with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio for a refreshing and complementary pairing. The acidity and fruitiness of the wine complement the rich and buttery flavors of the salmon, while the crispness and minerality cleanse the palate between bites. You can also enjoy a glass of sparkling water or lemonade for a non-alcoholic option.

Storage and Shelf Life:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, covering them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Freezing: While you can freeze cooked salmon for longer storage, its texture may become slightly dry or mushy upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy the Baked Salmon fresh for optimal flavor and texture. However, if you have leftovers that you’d like to freeze, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Value:

The nutritional value of Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter Sauce will vary depending on portion size and the specific ingredients used. However, it is generally rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Salmon is a nutrient-dense fish that’s low in calories and saturated fat but high in protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Dill and lemon add additional vitamins and antioxidants to the dish, while butter provides flavor and richness. By incorporating salmon into your diet, you’ll enjoy its many health benefits, including improved heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.

Possible Variations:

Citrus Variation: Experiment with different citrus flavors by using orange or lime juice and zest in place of lemon in the butter sauce. Orange adds a sweet and tangy flavor, while lime adds a zesty and refreshing twist. You can also combine multiple citrus fruits for a complex and vibrant flavor profile. Adjust the amount of citrus juice and zest to suit your taste preferences and balance the flavors of the dish.
Herb Substitutions: Swap out the dill for other fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, basil, or tarragon for a different flavor profile. Each herb has its own unique characteristics and flavor profile, so feel free to experiment with different options to suit your taste preferences. You can also combine multiple herbs for a more complex and aromatic sauce. Chop the herbs finely before adding them to the butter sauce for even distribution of flavor.
Sauce Additions: Enhance the flavor and texture of the butter sauce by adding additional ingredients such as capers, chopped olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the sauce, creating a more flavorful and dynamic dish. Simply stir in the desired additions after adding the lemon juice to the saucepan and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Nutty Twist: Add a nutty and savory flavor to the butter sauce by stirring in toasted nuts such as pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts. Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, then chop them finely before adding them to the sauce. The toasted nuts add crunch and richness to the sauce, elevating the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Spice Infusion: Infuse the butter sauce with spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes for a subtle kick of heat and flavor. Add the spices to the saucepan along with the garlic and cook until fragrant before adding the dill and lemon. Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences and add a hint of warmth and complexity to the dish.

Conclusion:

With its tender salmon fillets and vibrant dill and lemon butter sauce, our recipe for Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon Butter Sauce is a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious seafood dinner, this dish is a perfect choice. By combining simple yet flavorful ingredients and cooking techniques, you’ll create a meal that’s both elegant and comforting, satisfying your cravings and delighting your senses. So fire up the oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary experience with our irresistible Baked Salmon!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon for this recipe if fresh salmon is not available. Thaw the frozen salmon fillets in the refrigerator overnight before using them in the recipe to ensure even cooking. Pat the thawed salmon dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture before seasoning and baking it according to the recipe instructions. Frozen salmon may have a slightly different texture and flavor than fresh salmon, but it will still be delicious and nutritious.

Can I substitute dried dill with fresh dill?

While fresh dill provides the best flavor and aroma for this recipe, you can use dried dill as a substitute if fresh dill is not available. Keep in mind that dried dill is more concentrated in flavor than fresh dill, so you’ll need to use less. As a general rule of thumb, use about one-third to one-half the amount of dried dill called for in the recipe. You can also adjust the amount of dried dill to suit your taste preferences and add more if desired.

Can I omit the butter from the sauce?

While butter adds richness and flavor to the sauce, you can omit it if you prefer a lighter and healthier option. You can substitute olive oil or coconut oil for butter in the sauce, although the flavor and texture may be slightly different. Simply melt the oil in a saucepan and proceed with the recipe as directed, adding the garlic, dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste and drizzle the sauce over the baked salmon before serving.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of fish such as trout, cod, or halibut in place of salmon for this recipe. Choose firm and flaky fish fillets that are similar in size and thickness to salmon fillets for even cooking. Adjust the baking time as needed based on the thickness of the fish fillets and check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The dill and lemon butter sauce pairs well with a variety of fish, adding flavor and moisture to the dish.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

While it’s best to make the sauce fresh for optimal flavor and texture, you can prepare some components of the sauce ahead of time. You can chop the fresh dill and mince the garlic in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When ready to serve, melt the butter in a saucepan, add the garlic and dill, and proceed with the recipe as directed. This will save you time and effort on the day of cooking while still ensuring a delicious and flavorful sauce.