Few dishes are as effortless yet impressive as baked salmon with dill. The combination of fresh herbs, butter, and citrus enhances the rich, flaky texture of the fish without overpowering its natural flavor.
I still remember making this for the first time, expecting something ordinary—until I took a bite. The buttery, herb-infused salmon melted in my mouth, and I knew this would be a regular on my dinner menu.
This recipe is simple, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or serving guests, this oven-baked salmon with dill ensures a tender, juicy fillet every time. The secret? A balance of fresh dill, garlic, and lemon that enhances the salmon’s natural richness.
Why This Baked Salmon Recipe Stands Out
Salmon is one of the easiest proteins to cook, but it’s also easy to overdo it. A perfectly baked fillet should be moist, flaky, and full of flavor.
This recipe guarantees restaurant-quality results with minimal effort thanks to the right seasoning and cooking method.
- Tender and Moist Texture – Baking the salmon at the right temperature keeps the fish juicy and never dry.
- Fresh and Fragrant Dill Infusion – Dill and lemon complement the richness of salmon without overwhelming its delicate taste.
- Quick and Hassle-Free – This dish is ready in under 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile and Customizable – Works great with different sides and variations like adding Dijon mustard or a honey glaze.
- Nutrient-Dense and Healthy – Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins for a wholesome meal.
The Secret to Perfectly Baked Salmon
The key to great baked salmon is keeping it moist and flavorful while allowing the seasonings to shine. Dry, overcooked salmon is one of the most common mistakes, but it’s easy to avoid.
First, baking at a moderate temperature (375°F/190°C) ensures even cooking without drying out the fish. Wrapping it in parchment or foil traps in moisture, keeping the fillets tender. Finally, adding lemon, butter, and fresh dill locks in flavor, preventing the fish from tasting bland.
For an extra boost of taste, marinate the salmon for 15 minutes before baking or finish it with a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving.
Must-Have Ingredients for the Best Baked Salmon
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—every ingredient enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
- Salmon Fillets – Look for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best taste and texture.
- Fresh Dill – The key herb that brings out the fish’s delicate flavors.
- Lemon Slices – Adds brightness and prevents the salmon from drying out.
- Butter or Olive Oil – Helps create a silky, tender texture.
- Garlic – Infuses the salmon with a deep, savory flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Dill
Baking salmon is straightforward and foolproof with this step-by-step guide.
- Prepare the Salmon – Pat the fillets dry with paper towels and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Season Generously – Rub the salmon with butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add Fresh Ingredients – Lay thin slices of lemon over the fillets and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill.
- Bake to Perfection – Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish and Serve – Drizzle with extra lemon juice and a light sprinkle of sea salt before serving.
The result? A tender, flaky salmon fillet infused with bright, herby flavors and a buttery finish.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Salmon
Pairing this salmon with the right sides creates a well-balanced, satisfying meal. Here are some delicious options to complete the dish:
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| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Butter Asparagus | Light, crisp, and enhances the fresh flavors of the salmon. |
| Lemon Herb Quinoa | A protein-packed side that complements the citrusy notes. |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Adds a crispy, caramelized texture for contrast. |
| Creamy Mashed Potatoes | Rich and buttery, pairing perfectly with flaky salmon. |
| Steamed Green Beans | A simple, fresh option that keeps the meal light. |
| Crispy Roasted Potatoes | Adds a golden, crunchy element to the plate. |
How to Store and Reheat Baked Salmon
Salmon tastes best fresh, but you can store and reheat leftovers without losing flavor or texture.
Best Way to Store Leftover Salmon
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Salmon Without Drying It Out
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes with a splash of water or broth.
- Stovetop: Warm in a covered pan over low heat for 5 minutes.
- Avoid Microwaving: It dries out the salmon and changes the texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Salmon
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture—frozen works, but let it thaw completely first.
- Don’t overbake! Salmon should flake easily but still be moist in the center.
- For extra richness, drizzle with melted butter before serving.
- Marinate for deeper flavor, letting the garlic, lemon, and dill soak in before baking.
- If using skin-on salmon, bake skin-side down for better moisture retention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Salmon
1. How do I know when salmon is done?
Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium or 140°F (60°C) for well-done.
2. Can I bake salmon at a higher temperature?
Yes! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes gives a slightly crispier exterior while keeping the inside tender.
3. Can I substitute dried dill for fresh dill?
Yes, but fresh dill provides a brighter, more fragrant flavor. Use 1 teaspoon dried dill for every 1 tablespoon of fresh dill.
4. What’s the best way to prevent salmon from sticking to the pan?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
5. Can I cook salmon from frozen?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, adding a few extra minutes to account for the frozen texture.
Baked Salmon with Dill
Equipment
- Baking Sheet For even cooking in the oven
- Parchment Paper Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
- Sharp Knife For slicing lemon and prepping salmon
Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon skin-on or skinless
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- 1 lemon sliced for topping
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush melted butter over each fillet and season with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Top the salmon with fresh dill and lemon slices for added flavor.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven, drizzle with extra lemon juice, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Use skin-on salmon for extra moisture retention.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!