Roasted Lemon-Dill Salmon
Flaky, tender salmon fillets roasted with a bright and zesty coating of fresh lemon, dill, and garlic. A heart-healthy and incredibly flavorful main course that's ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- b.Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- c.In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, juice from half a lemon, chopped dill, and minced garlic.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with a paper towel.
- b.Arrange the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
- c.Season each fillet evenly with one pinch of salt and one pinch of black pepper.
TIPPatting the salmon dry is crucial for getting a nicely roasted exterior instead of a steamed one. - 3
Step 3
- a.Brush the lemon-dill mixture evenly over the top and sides of each salmon fillet.
- b.Slice the remaining half of the lemon into thin rounds.
- c.Place one or two lemon slices on top of each fillet.
- 4
Step 4
TIPCooking time will vary based on the thickness of your fillets. Start checking for doneness at the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking. - 5
Step 5
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcook the salmon! It's the most common mistake. It should be moist and tender, not dry.
- 2For extra flavor, you can let the salmon marinate in the lemon-dill mixture for 15 minutes before baking.
- 3Fresh dill makes a huge difference in this recipe. Dried dill can be used in a pinch, but use about one-third the amount.
- 4This recipe is perfect for a sheet-pan dinner. Add asparagus or broccoli florets to the pan alongside the salmon for a complete meal.
- 5Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's great flaked over a salad the next day.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
To save time, use pre-minced garlic from a jar and bottled lemon juice instead of fresh.
low carbLow carb
Serve the salmon with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of potatoes for a low-carb meal.
kid friendlyKid friendly
For a milder flavor that kids might prefer, reduce the amount of garlic and dill by half.
healthyHealthy
Pair this salmon with a large side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is one of the best sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and support overall heart health.
Excellent Source of Protein
A single serving provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, bone health, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Packed with B Vitamins
Salmon is rich in B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production, creating and repairing DNA, and reducing chronic inflammation.
Good Source of Vitamin D
This fish is a natural source of Vitamin D, a nutrient important for bone health and immune function that can be difficult to get from food alone.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. This recipe uses olive oil, a healthy fat, and keeps sodium low.