Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill

Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill is a timeless, elegant dish that celebrates the natural flavor of fresh salmon with just a handful of bright, aromatic ingredients. The richness of the fish is perfectly balanced by zesty lemon and the clean, herbaceous notes of dill, creating a meal that feels both light and satisfying

This recipe is loved across many cultures for its simplicity and nutritional value, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or special occasions. With minimal prep and reliable results, baked salmon is proof that great cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortless, healthy, and consistently delicious. It lets the quality of the salmon shine without masking it with heavy sauces.

The lemon brightens every bite, while dill adds a fresh, slightly grassy aroma that pairs beautifully with fish. Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days when you still want something nourishing and flavorful.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy with minimal cleanup
• Naturally rich in protein and omega-3s
• Light yet satisfying flavor profile
• Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks
• Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / European
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (approx.): 360 kcal per serving

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 150–170 g each), skin-on or skinless
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zest + juice)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tsp dried dill)
• Lemon slices, for topping

Cooking Directions (Quick Method)

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Place salmon on a lined baking tray.
3. Season with oil, garlic, lemon, salt, pepper, and dill.
4. Bake until salmon flakes easily.
5. Rest briefly and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil.
2. Prepare Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the tray.
3. Season: Drizzle olive oil over the salmon. Sprinkle garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper evenly.
4. Add Lemon & Dill: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and sprinkle with chopped dill.
5. Top with Lemon Slices: Place a lemon slice on each fillet for extra aroma.
6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
7. Rest: Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve baked salmon hot with roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. A light yogurt or mustard-dill sauce makes a lovely optional accompaniment.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook—salmon should be just opaque in the center
• Use fresh dill for the best flavor
• Pat salmon dry to help seasonings adhere
• Thicker fillets may need an extra 2–3 minutes

Variations

1. Garlic Butter Salmon

Replace olive oil with melted butter and add extra garlic.

2. Honey Lemon Salmon

Add 1–2 tsp honey for a subtle sweet note.

3. Creamy Dill Salmon

Serve with a light cream or yogurt-dill sauce on the side.

4. Foil-Baked Salmon

Wrap salmon in foil for extra moisture and easy cleanup.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold in salads.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking tray
• Parchment paper or foil
• Zester or grater
• Measuring spoons

Conclusion

Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill is a simple yet elegant recipe that delivers fresh, vibrant flavors with minimal effort. Nutritious, versatile, and consistently delicious, it’s a dish you can rely on for both everyday meals and special occasions. Once you try it, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.