Baked salmon with lemon and dill is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to prepare salmon at home. It combines fresh, wholesome ingredients with a light seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you can serve a dish that is nutritious, satisfying, and full of flavor.
The blend of lemon and dill not only adds freshness but also creates a balance that works beautifully with tender salmon. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is known for being both delicious and good for your health. By baking it in the oven, you get a moist and flaky result every time, with minimal effort.
Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this baked salmon recipe brings convenience and taste together in the best way.
Why You’ll Love This
There are many reasons why this baked salmon with lemon and dill recipe stands out as a favorite:
- Easy preparation: The steps are simple, and the recipe requires only a handful of everyday ingredients.
- Healthy and nutritious: Salmon is packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. Combined with fresh herbs and lemon, this dish supports a balanced lifestyle.
- Quick cooking time: From start to finish, it takes less than 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy schedules.
- Fresh and light flavor: The pairing of dill and lemon keeps the dish bright, clean, and refreshing.
- Versatile serving options: It goes well with roasted vegetables, rice, pasta, or a crisp salad, giving you flexibility in how you serve it.
- Perfect results every time: Baking salmon ensures even cooking, keeping it moist and tender without much effort.
This combination of simplicity, nutrition, and great taste makes baked salmon with lemon and dill a recipe worth adding to your regular meal rotation.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this baked salmon with lemon and dill, you only need a few fresh and simple ingredients that bring out the best flavor in the fish. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 4 salmon fillets – Choose fresh, high-quality salmon with skin on or off, depending on your preference. Each fillet should be about 6 oz (170 g).
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Provides moisture and enhances the natural flavor of the salmon. You can also use avocado oil if preferred.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – Dill is the star herb in this recipe, adding a bright and aromatic touch.
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced – Lemon slices both season the salmon and infuse it with a refreshing citrus flavor during baking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings depth and a mild kick that balances the freshness of dill and lemon.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and highlighting the natural flavors.
- Lemon wedges, for serving – Adds extra freshness at the table.
Optional additions: A light sprinkle of paprika for subtle color, or a drizzle of melted butter for extra richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for perfectly baked salmon that is moist, flaky, and full of flavor:
- Preheat the oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully heat before baking. A preheated oven ensures even cooking.
- Prepare the baking dish
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Choose a dish large enough to hold the salmon fillets in a single layer.
- Season the salmon
- Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish, skin side down if using skin-on fillets.
- Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, then rub it gently to coat the surface.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and pepper evenly over the fillets.
- Add lemon and dill
- Place thin slices of lemon on top of each fillet.
- Sprinkle fresh dill over the salmon, pressing it lightly so it sticks to the surface.
- Bake the salmon
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and serve
- Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of flavor before eating.
Pro Tips for Best Results:
- For thicker fillets, add 2–3 more minutes to the baking time.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the salmon moist and tender.
- Pair with sides like roasted vegetables, garlic rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill Recipe
Description
This baked salmon with lemon and dill is a quick, healthy, and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender salmon fillets are seasoned with garlic, fresh dill, and lemon slices, then baked to perfection in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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Place salmon fillets in the dish, skin side down if using skin-on fillets.
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Drizzle with olive oil and rub gently to coat.
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Season with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Lay thin lemon slices over the fillets and sprinkle with fresh dill.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Remove from oven, let rest for 2–3 minutes, and serve with extra lemon wedges.
