Baked Salmon with Dill

Discovering baked salmon with dill sauce was like unlocking a new favorite weeknight dinner—simple, bright, and reliably impressive every time.

I still remember the time unexpected friends stopped by and I whipped this up in no time, earning compliments without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: I always pick fresh salmon with skin on for crispiness, but skinless works great for easier plating
• Olive oil: A good extra virgin works wonders to lock in moisture while roasting
• Fresh dill: Nothing beats the brightness of fresh herbs; dried dill is fine in a pinch
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt adds a lighter tang while keeping the sauce creamy

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Get your oven ready at 200°C and line a baking sheet to catch all the goodness, which makes cleanup a breeze

Season the Salmon:

Lay fillets skin-side down, drizzle olive oil, and sprinkle salt and pepper evenly—watch how the oil glistens and the scent starts to build

Add Lemon Slices:

Arrange thin lemon slices on top to infuse bright citrus aromas as it bakes

Bake to Perfection:

Slide into the oven for 15 to 18 minutes until salmon flakes easily and turns a beautiful opaque pink, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas

Make the Dill Sauce:

While the fish bakes, whisk together sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting to your taste for that perfect balance

Serve and Enjoy:

Plate the salmon fillets hot with generous spoonfuls of the dill sauce that adds the perfect creamy, herbal finish

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This dish became my go-to comfort food after a tough week, reminding me that simple ingredients can bring big cheers at the table.

Keeping It Fresh

Using fresh dill and lemon really lifts the whole dish, so if you can grab the herbs fresh from a market or garden, it’s worth it.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I love pairing baked salmon with light sides like steamed asparagus or a crisp green salad to keep things bright and balanced.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once I had zero time to cook but needed to impress dinner guests—this recipe was a lifesaver with its quick prep and impressive results.

• Remember to preheat your oven fully before starting
• If you want more zing, add a splash of white wine to the baking tray
• Don’t hesitate to swap Greek yogurt for sour cream depending on your mood

Save

Thanks for spending time in the kitchen with me on this one—hope it brings warmth and ease to your table!

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of salmon is best for baking?

Salmon fillets with skin on or off both work well, as skin helps retain moisture during baking.

→ Can I substitute dill in the sauce?

Fresh dill gives the best flavor, but dried dill may be used in a pinch with slightly less intensity.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque center when fully cooked.

→ What is a good side to serve with baked salmon and dill sauce?

Steamed potatoes, asparagus, or a crisp green salad balance the richness of the salmon and creaminess of the sauce.

→ Can I make the dill sauce ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the sauce in advance allows the flavors to meld; just keep it refrigerated and stir before serving.