There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and dill that brings out the best in salmon.

This Lemon Dill Baked Salmon is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and simple ingredients.

I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner with friends.

Table of Contents

Ingredient List

To create my Lemon Dill Baked Salmon, I gather the following fresh ingredients:

Salmon Fillets: 4 pieces (about 6 ounces each)
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (from about 1 lemon)
Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon (from the same lemon)
Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons (chopped)
Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
Lemon Slices: For garnish (optional)

These ingredients provide a bright and refreshing flavor that complements the salmon beautifully. The fresh dill and zesty lemon enhance the dish and make it an enjoyable experience for any meal.

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 achieves that perfect flaky texture.
Prepare the Baking Dish
I lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This not only prevents the salmon from sticking but also adds a flavorful base for the dish.
Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, I whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice and zest of 1 large lemon, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill. I also add salt and black pepper to taste, usually around ½ teaspoon each. The mixture should smell bright and refreshing.
Prepare the Salmon
I place my salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. I then pour the lemon-dill marinade evenly over the fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. The vibrant colors of the lemon and dill make it look appealing.
Add Lemon Slices
If I choose to use them, I layer thin slices of lemon on top of the salmon for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Bake the Salmon
I place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. The fillets are done when they easily flake with a fork and have turned opaque in color.
Garnish and Serve
Once the salmon is out of the oven, I sprinkle a bit more fresh dill on top for that extra pop of color and flavor. I serve it immediately with my favorite side dishes, enjoying the aromas that fill my kitchen.

The entire process is quick and simple, allowing me to enjoy a delicious homemade meal.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Lemon Dill Baked Salmon, I like to keep a few notes and variations in mind to customize the dish to my taste or pantry ingredients.

Freshness Matters

Using fresh ingredients, especially the dill and lemon, greatly enhances the flavor of the dish. If I have fresh dill on hand, I always prefer that over dried. However, if dried dill is all I have, I can substitute it in a pinch—just use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Experiment with Other Herbs

While dill and lemon are a classic pairing, I enjoy experimenting with other herbs like parsley or thyme. Mixing in these herbs can change the flavor profile slightly while still keeping the dish light and refreshing.

Add Vegetables

To make my meal more substantial, I sometimes add a layer of vegetables beneath the salmon. Sliced zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes roast beautifully alongside the fish and absorb flavor from the marinade.

Spice It Up

For a bit of heat, I sometimes add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. This adds a pleasant kick that complements the brightness of the lemon and the earthiness of the dill.

Cooking Method

If I’m in a hurry, I often use an air fryer instead of baking. The cooking time reduces to about 8 to 10 minutes at the same temperature for perfectly cooked salmon.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving my Lemon Dill Baked Salmon with a side of quinoa or a fresh green salad. The light flavors of the dish pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lime.

Make Ahead

This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. I can bake a larger batch and enjoy it over a couple of days. Just reheat gently in the oven to maintain its moisture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate my Lemon Dill Baked Salmon experience, I love to pair it with side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Here are a few recommendations that add variety to the table:

Quinoa Pilaf

I often make a light quinoa pilaf seasoned with lemon juice, parsley, and roasted vegetables. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs beautifully with the salmon while enhancing the dish’s freshness.

Green Salad

A fresh green salad is my go-to choice. I mix arugula or mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette. The crunchy texture and citrus dressing balance the rich salmon perfectly.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus brings a vibrant color and earthy flavor. I simply toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast it alongside the salmon for a delightful combination.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

For a heartier side, I sometimes serve creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The buttery richness of the potatoes contrasts nicely with the zesty salmon, creating a satisfying meal.

Wine Pairing

When it comes to beverages, I recommend a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. If I want a non-alcoholic option, I enjoy sparkling water with a slice of lime for a refreshing touch.

Meal Prep

I appreciate how well this dish holds up for meal prep. I often make a bigger batch and serve the leftovers with different sides throughout the week, keeping my meals exciting and accessible.

By pairing my Lemon Dill Baked Salmon with these sides, I turn a simple dish into a delightful dining experience that I always look forward to enjoying.

Nutrition Information

When I whip up my Lemon Dill Baked Salmon, I’m not just enjoying a delicious meal; I’m also nourishing my body with a variety of essential nutrients.

Here’s a detailed look at the nutrition profile for a serving of this delightful dish:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	34 g
Total Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Carbohydrates	2 g
Dietary Fiber	0 g
Sugars	0 g
Vitamin D	570 IU
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	2.5 g
Sodium	300 mg

Each serving of Lemon Dill Baked Salmon is packed with protein, making it a great choice for muscle building and repair.

The healthy fats present, especially from the salmon, provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids which are known to benefit cardiovascular health.

Additionally, the vitamin D content is significant, promoting bone health and supporting immune function.

This meal remains low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

With all these nutritious benefits packed into each bite, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.

Enjoying Lemon Dill Baked Salmon makes me feel good about what I’m putting into my body while delighting my taste buds.

Conclusion

I absolutely love how Lemon Dill Baked Salmon brings a burst of fresh flavors to my table.

It’s such a versatile dish that fits perfectly into my busy weeknights or even when I’m entertaining friends.

The combination of lemon and dill really enhances the salmon’s natural taste.

I can’t get enough of experimenting with different sides and variations. Whether I pair it with quinoa or a fresh salad it always feels like a special meal.

Plus knowing it’s nutritious makes it even better. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do!