Name: Baked Salmon Dill Lemon: The Ultimate Recipe for Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pats; Optional: Additional lemon wedges, for serving

Baked Salmon Dill Lemon – just the name conjures up images of a light, flaky, and utterly delicious meal, doesn't it? I'm thrilled to share this recipe with you because it's not only incredibly easy to make, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Forget complicated cooking methods and hours spent slaving over a hot stove; this dish is all about simplicity and fresh flavors.

Salmon has long been a staple in coastal communities around the world, revered for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. The addition of dill and lemon elevates this humble fish to new heights, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The bright, citrusy notes of lemon perfectly complement the richness of the salmon, while the delicate, herbaceous dill adds a touch of freshness that is simply irresistible.

What makes baked salmon dill lemon so universally loved? It's the perfect combination of taste, texture, and convenience. The salmon emerges from the oven perfectly cooked, boasting a moist and flaky texture that melts in your mouth. The dill and lemon infuse the fish with a vibrant flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying. And best of all, this dish requires minimal effort and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. So, are you ready to experience the magic of baked salmon dill lemon? Let's get started!

Ingredients:

2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pats
Optional: Additional lemon wedges, for serving

Preparing the Salmon:

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and beautifully.
While the oven is heating up, let's get the salmon ready. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step! Removing excess moisture helps the salmon develop a nice crust.
Now, drizzle each salmon fillet with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Make sure to coat both sides if you're using skinless fillets. If you're keeping the skin on, focus on the flesh side.
Season generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy! Salmon can handle a good amount of seasoning.
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic and chopped dill. This aromatic mixture will infuse the salmon with incredible flavor.

Assembling the Dish:

Grab a baking dish that's large enough to comfortably hold both salmon fillets without overcrowding. A little space around each fillet helps with even cooking.
Line the baking dish with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the salmon from sticking. Trust me, you'll thank me later!
Arrange half of the lemon slices in a single layer on the parchment paper. These lemon slices will act as a platform for the salmon, preventing it from sticking and adding a subtle citrusy flavor.
Place the salmon fillets on top of the lemon slices. Make sure they're evenly spaced.
Spoon the garlic-dill mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Spread it around so that each bite is bursting with flavor.
Top each salmon fillet with the remaining lemon slices. This adds another layer of citrusy goodness and helps keep the salmon moist during baking.
If you're using butter, dot each salmon fillet with small pats of butter. The butter will melt and create a rich, flavorful sauce.

Baking the Salmon:

Carefully transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets, so keep an eye on them.
To check for doneness, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. If it flakes easily and the color is opaque throughout, it's ready.
If you want a little extra color on top, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. But be careful not to overcook it! Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

Serving:

Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet.
Carefully lift the salmon fillets from the baking dish using a spatula.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides. This baked salmon pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Garnish with fresh dill and lemon wedges, if desired. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds a bright, zesty finish.

Tips and Variations:

Skin On or Off? The choice is yours! Baking salmon with the skin on helps to keep it moist and adds a crispy texture. If you prefer skinless salmon, simply remove the skin before baking.
Spice it Up: For a little extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic-dill mixture.
Herb Variations: If you're not a fan of dill, try using other fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary.
Vegetable Additions: Add some sliced vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini to the baking dish along with the salmon for a complete meal.
Wine Pairing: This baked salmon pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Storage: Leftover baked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Enjoy!

This recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own signature baked salmon dish. I hope you enjoy this simple yet elegant recipe as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon isn't just another fish recipe; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. I truly believe this is a must-try because it's incredibly easy to prepare, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality dish without the restaurant price tag. The bright, zesty lemon perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, while the fresh dill adds an herbaceous note that elevates the entire experience. It's a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! Looking for serving suggestions? I love pairing this baked salmon with a side of fluffy quinoa or couscous to soak up all those delicious juices. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans are also fantastic choices for a light and healthy accompaniment. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a vibrant salad with a lemon vinaigrette. And don't be afraid to experiment with variations! If you're not a fan of dill, try using other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even a touch of tarragon. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Want to add some sweetness? A drizzle of honey or maple syrup before baking can create a delightful caramelized glaze. You could even try adding thinly sliced lemon rounds on top of the salmon for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Another great variation is to add a sprinkle of capers before baking for a salty, briny flavor. The possibilities are truly endless, and that's what makes this recipe so special. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! I've made this baked salmon countless times, and I'm always amazed at how simple it is to achieve such incredible flavor. It's become a staple in my household, and I'm confident it will become one in yours too. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon. I promise you won't be disappointed. It's the perfect weeknight meal, elegant enough for a dinner party, and healthy enough to enjoy any day of the week. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you've had a chance to make it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the section below – I can't wait to see your culinary creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this baked salmon as much as I do.