This Lemon Dill Salmon is a bright and tasty dish. The fish is cooked with a buttery sauce made of garlic and white wine, giving it a delicious twist!
The fresh lemon and dill add such a lively flavor that you’ll feel like a chef in a fancy restaurant! I love pairing it with rice or veggies for an easy weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this dish. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or any firm white fish like cod or halibut instead. Frozen fish works too; just ensure it’s thawed completely.
White Wine: A dry white wine is key for flavor; Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully. If you prefer to skip the wine, use vegetable or chicken broth with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Dill: Fresh dill brings out the flavor, but if you can’t find it, use parsley or even basil as an alternative. Dried dill can also be used; use about a third of the amount.
Butter: While unsalted butter is recommended for better control of salt levels, feel free to use salted butter if that’s all you have on hand. Coconut oil works as a dairy-free alternative!
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking salmon to perfection can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure you get it just right:
- Dry Well: Start by patting the salmon dry; this helps achieve a crispy skin!
- Heat Control: Use medium-high heat to get the skin crispy without overcooking the inside.
- Cooking Time: Cook skin-side down first for 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the center is slightly translucent.
- Carryover Cooking: Remove it from the heat while it’s still slightly undercooked; it will continue to cook as it sits.
These tips will help make your salmon come out flaky and delicious every time!
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon with Garlic, White Wine, and Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 1 ½ lbs (about 700g) salmon fillet, skin on
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic, White Wine, and Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish will take you about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this delicious Lemon Dill Salmon ready in under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor as it cooks!
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon skin-side down in the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about halfway through. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
3. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the salmon over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. It should be nearly cooked through but still moist inside. Once done, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to stay warm.
4. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet (with the remaining oil), reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter and sliced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it’s fragrant and golden, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Make sure not to burn it!
5. Add Wine and Lemon Juice:
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly reduces. This will enhance the flavors!
6. Incorporate Dill and Heat the Salmon:
Stir in the chopped dill and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Return the salmon to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Let it warm through for about 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the salmon topped with the buttery garlic sauce, garnishing with sliced almonds and fresh dill sprigs. Pair it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal!
This Lemon Dill Salmon dish is packed with flavor and is sure to impress at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or placing the sealed salmon in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth mixed with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. This will still provide some acidity and flavor to the sauce!
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture.
What Can I Serve with Lemon Dill Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it over a bed of salad greens or with a simple side of garlic mashed potatoes!