I love recipes that are both simple and packed with flavor, and this baked salmon with creamy dill sauce is a perfect example. Last night, I was craving something fresh yet comforting, so I whipped up this delicious dish. The best part? It was ready in just about 30 minutes!
The salmon was flaky and tender, with a slight crisp on the edges, while the creamy dill sauce added a refreshing, tangy contrast. My family devoured it in minutes, and I was left wondering why I don’t make this more often! It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or even a light salad.
If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive meal, this is it! Now, let me walk you through why you’ll absolutely love this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon Recipe?
This dish is more than just a simple weeknight meal; it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that checks all the right boxes!
1. Quick and Easy Preparation
If you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal, this recipe is perfect. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes!
2. Bursting with Flavor
Salmon naturally has a rich, buttery flavor, and when paired with the creamy dill sauce, it becomes even more irresistible. The fresh lemon juice adds brightness, while the garlic enhances the overall taste.
3. Healthy and Nutritious
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins, this salmon dish is both wholesome and delicious. It’s also low in carbs, making it perfect for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
You can easily adjust the seasonings, swap out ingredients in the sauce, or even add a crispy crust on the salmon for extra texture. This recipe is flexible enough to suit different taste preferences!
Cooking Time
This meal is fast and effortless, perfect for any busy evening!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1.5 tbsp fresh or dried dill
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp granulated garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Variations to Try
Looking for ways to switch things up? Here are some great variations!
- Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream.
- Extra Tangy: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dill sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes on the salmon before baking.
- Lemon Herb: Add fresh thyme or parsley for more herbal notes.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking Tray – For baking the salmon evenly.
- Parchment Paper or Foil – To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mixing Bowl – For preparing the creamy dill sauce.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – For precise ingredient portions.
- Instant-Read Thermometer – Ensures perfectly cooked salmon.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce?
This recipe is super easy to follow and doesn’t require any special cooking skills. Just follow these simple steps!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Salmon 🔥
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection 🐟
Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 12-16 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The key is to remove it from the oven when the internal temperature reaches 135°F—it will continue cooking as it rests.
Step 3: Prepare the Dill Sauce 🥣
While the salmon is baking, make the creamy dill sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 4: Let the Salmon Rest ⏳
Once the salmon reaches 135°F, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. During this time, the temperature will rise to 145°F, ensuring perfectly cooked, flaky salmon.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy! 🍽️
Spoon the creamy dill sauce over the salmon fillets and garnish with lemon wedges or extra dill. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy your delicious meal!
Expert Tips for Perfect Salmon
- Don’t Overcook It – Removing salmon at 135°F ensures it remains moist and tender.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh lemon juice and dill make a big difference in flavor.
- Rest the Salmon – Let it sit for 5-10 minutes after baking for the best texture.
- Customize the Sauce – Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for more depth.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Salmon
This baked salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Here are some great options:
- Light & Fresh: Serve with a green salad or roasted asparagus.
- Hearty & Comforting: Pair it with garlic mashed potatoes or rice pilaf.
- Mediterranean Twist: Try it with couscous, feta cheese, and olives.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious!
- Calories: 334 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 20g
How to Store and Make Ahead?
If you have leftovers or want to prep in advance, here’s how to store this dish properly.
Refrigeration
Allow the salmon to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F to prevent drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the cooked salmon in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Making the Sauce Ahead
The dill sauce can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving!
Get a visual guide by checking out this YouTube tutorial:
Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 6 oz salmon fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1.5 tbsp fresh or dried dill
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp granulated garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 12-16 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The key is to remove it from the oven when the internal temperature reaches 135°F—it will continue cooking as it rests.
- While the salmon is baking, make the creamy dill sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Once the salmon reaches 135°F, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. During this time, the temperature will rise to 145°F, ensuring perfectly cooked, flaky salmon.
- Spoon the creamy dill sauce over the salmon fillets and garnish with lemon wedges or extra dill. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy your delicious meal!
Notes
- Light & Fresh: Serve with a green salad or roasted asparagus.
- Hearty & Comforting: Pair it with garlic mashed potatoes or rice pilaf.
- Mediterranean Twist: Try it with couscous, feta cheese, and olives.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice.
