There’s something truly special about a perfectly cooked piece of salmon.
The rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with vibrant herbs and zesty sauces, making it a favorite in my kitchen.
Today, I’m excited to share my Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce, a dish that not only looks impressive but also bursts with fresh flavors.
Ingredient List
For this Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce, I gather the following ingredients to ensure the dish bursts with flavor:
For the Herb-Crusted Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gathering these ingredients sets the stage for creating a delightful and vibrant meal that’s sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and crisps up perfectly on the outside.
- Prepare the Salmon
I grab my salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the herb crust stick better. I then place the fillets skin-side down on a lined baking sheet.
- Make the Herb Crust
In a mixing bowl, I combine 1 cup of fresh breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons of olive oil 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley 1 tablespoon of fresh dill 1 tablespoon of fresh chives 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and a pinch of salt and pepper. I stir everything until the breadcrumbs are fully coated with the mixture.
- Crust the Salmon
I generously spread the herb mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing it down gently to ensure it adheres well.
- Bake the Salmon
I place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
- Prepare the Lemon Dill Sauce
While the salmon bakes, I whisk together ½ cup of Greek yogurt ¼ cup of mayonnaise the juice of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of fresh dill in a small bowl. This sauce adds a refreshing tang to the dish.
- Serve the Dish
Once the salmon is done baking, I remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute. I then serve each fillet with a generous drizzle of the lemon dill sauce on top. A lemon wedge on the side adds a nice touch.
- Enjoy
After plating, I savor my herb-crusted salmon with lemon dill sauce, appreciating the vibrant flavors and textures with each delicious bite.
Recipe Notes & Variations
- Salmon Alternatives: I love using skin-on salmon fillets for this recipe for added flavor and texture. However if you prefer skinless fillets or would like to try another fish like trout or sea bass, you can easily substitute those.
- Herb Choices: While I often use a mix of parsley, dill, and chives for the herb crust, feel free to get creative. Fresh tarragon, thyme, or basil can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Breadcrumb Options: I recommend using fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture but if you don’t have any on hand, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Make-Ahead Sauce: The lemon dill sauce is incredibly versatile. I often prepare it in advance as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors really meld together over time which enhances its deliciousness.
- Cooking Time: Keep in mind that cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. I always check for doneness by ensuring the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serving Suggestions: This herb-crusted salmon pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. I enjoy serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up any extra sauce.
- Meal Prep: If I’m making this dish for meal prep, I often bake multiple fillets at once. The cooked salmon stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can easily be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Zesty Additions: For a bit more zing, I sometimes enjoy adding finely chopped capers or a dash of hot sauce to the lemon dill sauce for a pop of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce alongside a variety of delicious sides that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables like asparagus carrots and bell peppers roasted to perfection enhances the meal. Toss them in olive oil garlic and your favorite herbs before roasting until tender.
- Fresh Salad: A light and crisp salad with mixed greens cherry tomatoes cucumber and avocado adds a refreshing crunch. Drizzle a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil lemon juice and honey over the top for brightness.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serving the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa provides a hearty base that soaks up the delicious lemon dill sauce. I often cook the grains in vegetable broth for added flavor.
- Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs like parsley or mint adds an intriguing texture and taste. The lightness of couscous balances the richness of the salmon beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: For a bit of indulgence I love pairing this dish with warm garlic bread. The crunch of the crust and the buttery garlic flavor make it a delight to mop up any leftover sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the dish perfectly. The acidity in the wine matches the lemony notes in the sauce beautifully.
Nutrition Information
For those who are mindful of nutrition while enjoying a delicious meal, here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for my Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce.
This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a healthy punch.
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
- High in Protein: Salmon is rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon provides a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is a great source of vitamins B12 and D, as well as important minerals like selenium and potassium.
- Low in Carbohydrates: With only 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it fits well into low-carb diets.
The zesty Lemon Dill Sauce is made with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, adding creaminess while also contributing calcium and healthy fats.
The addition of fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds extra nutrients, making this dish not just a delight for the palate but also beneficial for overall health.
Incorporating a variety of sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can further boost the nutritional profile of this meal, ensuring you get a balanced combination of vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
I can’t wait for you to try this Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce. It’s a dish that brings together vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients in such a delightful way.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests this meal is sure to impress.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with the herbs or sides to make it your own. I love how versatile this recipe is and how it can fit into any occasion.
Enjoy every bite and savor the deliciousness that comes from the perfect combination of salmon and that zesty sauce. Happy cooking!