Savory Baked Salmon with Zesty Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Have you ever wondered how a simple dish like baked salmon can transform your meal into a gourmet experience? Recent studies indicate that cooking with fresh herbs and citrus can enhance flavor while offering health benefits. This Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce is not just delicious, but it also aligns perfectly with healthy eating habits. Join me as we explore how to create this delectable recipe that is sure to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients List
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional, for added flavor and color)
Feel free to substitute the salmon with trout or another fatty fish for a similar flavor profile. You can also use lime juice instead of lemon for a different zest.
Timing
This delightful dish comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The preparation and cooking time is just about 30 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average recipe for baked fish. Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-heated oven is essential for achieving perfectly baked salmon.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the olive oil and seasonings adhere better and promotes an even cook.
Step 3: Create the Lemon Dill Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, and minced garlic. This aromatic mix is key to infusing flavor into the salmon.
Step 4: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle the lemon dill sauce over the top and season with salt and pepper. For an extra pop of color and taste, scatter cherry tomatoes around the fillets if you’re using them.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Nutritional Information
This Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce is not only scrumptious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 20g (including healthy omega-3 fatty acids)
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Vitamin D: 534 IU (134% DV)
- Calcium: 20 mg (2% DV)
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make this dish even healthier, consider the following substitutions:
- Instead of olive oil, use avocado oil for a different flavor profile and increased health benefits.
- Swap a portion of the salmon for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option rich in protein.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce instead of salt for a flavor boost without the extra sodium.
Serving Suggestions
This baked salmon dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will delight all palates:
- Serve over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- Pair with steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts for a colorful plate.
- Offer a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for balance.
- Drizzle extra lemon dill sauce over vegetables or grains for flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned cooks can sometimes trip up on seemingly straightforward recipes. Here are pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold salmon directly from the refrigerator can lead to uneven cooking. Always let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
- Overbaking the salmon is a common error. Keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer for precision.
- Skipping the seasoning step. A well-seasoned dish enhances flavors, so don’t rush this essential part.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain freshness. Here are some best practices:
- Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it can last up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap the fillets tightly in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag—good for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments below, and subscribe for more delicious updates!
FAQs
A: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
B: What can I serve with baked salmon?
Consider pairing baked salmon with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
C: How can I tell if salmon is cooked properly?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
D: Can I prepare the lemon dill sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors.
E: What should I do if I can’t find fresh dill?
If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill works well too. Just use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Print
Savory Baked Salmon with Zesty Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in flavorful baked salmon paired with a vibrant lemon dill sauce. Perfect for a quick, delicious dinner option that impresses every time!
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
