Salmon with Dill Sauce

Salmon with Dill Sauce is a timeless, elegant dish that highlights the natural richness of salmon paired with the fresh, herbaceous brightness of dill. This classic combination is loved for its simplicity and balance—the tender, flaky salmon provides a buttery base, while the creamy dill sauce adds a refreshing, tangy contrast that elevates the entire meal.

Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Whether baked, pan-seared, or grilled, salmon becomes the ideal canvas for a smooth dill sauce made with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly balances freshness, richness, and simplicity. The salmon is tender and flavorful on its own, but the creamy dill sauce adds a bright, herby tang that elevates the dish without overpowering it. It feels elegant enough for a special dinner yet easy enough for a busy weeknight, and it always turns out delicious, comforting, and satisfying every single time.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic flavor pairing that never disappoints
• Healthy, protein-rich meal
• Easy enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests
• Fresh, creamy, and balanced flavors
• Ready in under 30 minutes

If you enjoy seafood dishes that are simple yet flavorful, salmon with dill sauce is a must-try.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Scandinavian / European-Inspired
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 360–400 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Dill Sauce

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat skillet over medium heat.
2. Season salmon with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
3. Cook salmon until opaque and flaky.
4. Mix dill sauce ingredients until smooth.
5. Serve salmon topped with dill sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Salmon: Pat fillets dry and season evenly.
2. Cook Salmon: Bake or pan-sear until cooked through.
3. Make Dill Sauce: Combine yogurt, mayo, dill, lemon juice, mustard, and garlic.
4. Season Sauce: Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble: Spoon sauce over warm salmon before serving.

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How to Serve Salmon with Dill Sauce

• Serve with roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables
• Pair with rice or quinoa
• Garnish with lemon wedges and extra dill
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh dill for best flavor
• Do not overcook salmon to avoid dryness
• Let salmon rest briefly before serving
• Adjust sauce consistency with a splash of milk
• Taste sauce before serving and adjust seasoning

Variations (Detailed)

Creamy Lemon Dill Sauce

Add extra lemon zest for brightness.

Dairy-Free Version

Use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise.

Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce

Grill salmon for a smoky flavor.

Baked Parmesan Salmon

Add a Parmesan crust before baking.

Honey-Dill Salmon

Add a drizzle of honey to the sauce for sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store cooked salmon in airtight container
• Keeps for 2–3 days

Freezer

• Freeze salmon without sauce for up to 2 months
• Freeze sauce separately for best texture

Reheating

• Reheat gently in oven or skillet to avoid drying

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Conclusion

Salmon with Dill Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases fresh ingredients and classic flavors. With tender salmon and a creamy, tangy dill sauce, this recipe is perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your seafood rotation.