Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce

This Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce is a light and flavorful dish featuring tender, flaky salmon topped with a creamy, tangy lemon dill sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes.
• Healthy and nutritious – Packed with omega-3s and lean protein.
• Fresh and flavorful – Lemon and dill add a bright, refreshing taste.
• Versatile – Works well with baked, pan-seared, or grilled salmon.
• Restaurant-quality – A gourmet meal made at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

For the Lemon Dill Sauce

• ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Lemon Dill Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Cook the Salmon

Option 1: Pan-Seared Salmon

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Pat the salmon dry and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
• Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Option 2: Baked Salmon

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets skin-side down.
• Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

3. Serve

• Spoon the lemon dill sauce over the cooked salmon.
• Garnish with extra fresh dill and lemon slices.
• Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream.
• Herb Butter Salmon – Replace olive oil with garlic herb butter for a richer flavor.
• Grilled Version – Grill salmon over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon (without sauce) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes! Use 1 tsp dried dill for every 1 tbsp fresh dill.

What’s the best way to tell if salmon is done?

It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flake easily with a fork.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Can I make the lemon dill sauce ahead of time?

Yes! It can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream?

Yes, both work well for a creamy sauce.

Can I use this sauce for other proteins?

Yes, it’s delicious on chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables.

How do I make the sauce thinner?

Add a little more lemon juice or a splash of water to adjust the consistency.

Can I bake the salmon in foil?

Yes, wrapping the salmon in foil helps retain moisture and flavor.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.

Conclusion

Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce is a fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender, flaky salmon and creamy, tangy sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just minutes. Serve it with your favorite sides for a healthy and satisfying dinner!