Are you tired of bland, dry salmon that leaves you disappointed? Get ready to transform your dinner game with this mouthwatering Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce that will make your taste buds dance! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary skills and impress even the most discerning dinner guests.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- Season the salmon fillets generously with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest on both sides. Ensure even coverage for consistent flavor.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet for even cooking.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, remaining lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on fillet thickness.
- Remove salmon from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow carryover cooking and help retain moisture.
- Plate the salmon and generously drizzle the prepared lemon dill yogurt sauce over the top.
- Garnish with additional fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges for presentation and extra flavor.
Tips
- Pat the salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear and prevent steaming.
- Use fresh dill if possible - it makes a significant difference in flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Don't overcook the salmon! The fish is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- For extra flavor, let the salmon marinate in the seasoning for 15-20 minutes before baking.
- Choose high-quality, thick salmon fillets for the best texture and most consistent cooking.
- If you prefer a golden top, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- The yogurt sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately after resting to enjoy the salmon at its most tender and flavorful state.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
