This Lemon Dill Salmon is a quick and tasty dish that shines with fresh flavors. The garlic, white wine, and buttery sauce give it a lovely touch that makes each bite special!
I love how easy it is to whip up this salmon for a weeknight dinner. Pair it with some veggies or rice, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! If you can’t find it, try trout or even a firm white fish like cod. Frozen salmon works, but thaw it completely first for even cooking.
White Wine: Dry white wine lifts the flavors nicely. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar effect.
Dill: Fresh dill brings vibrant flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use dried dill, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh parsley adds a milder taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for control over saltiness. As a healthier alternative, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.
How Do You Cook Salmon Without Overcooking It?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky, but I swear by this simple technique! Start with a hot skillet to get a crisp skin, then flip it over to finish cooking gently.
- Make sure the salmon is dry to avoid steam. A dry fillet creates a nice sear!
- Cook it skin-side down first for about 4-5 minutes. You’ll see the color change on the sides; that’s a good sign!
- Flip and cook for just another 2-3 minutes. Remove it when it’s still a bit pink in the center—carryover cooking will finish it as it rests.
This method helps keep your salmon juicy and moist, so it doesn’t dry out. Happy cooking!
How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon with Garlic, White Wine, and Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salmon:
- 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin on
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- For Garnish:
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Dill Salmon takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 10 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 20 minutes. A perfect quick meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillet dry using paper towels. This will help the skin get crispy while cooking. Season both sides of the salmon generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test by flicking a drop of water into the pan—it should sizzle!), carefully place the salmon fillet in the skillet skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is nice and crispy. You’ll see the salmon cooking up the sides. Next, flip the salmon gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it’s cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt completely, then add the sliced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn.
4. Add the Wine and Lemon Juice:
Next, pour in the dry white wine and lemon juice to deglaze the pan. Stir well to scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly, helping to concentrate the flavors.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Now stir in the lemon zest, finely chopped dill, and red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat. Make sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed!
6. Combine:
Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let it warm through for just 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld together.
7. Plate and Garnish:
Transfer the salmon to serving plates. Spoon the flavorful garlic, dill, and butter sauce generously over the top. Garnish with extra fresh dill and lemon slices for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve:
Enjoy your Lemon Dill Salmon immediately! It pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
This recipe will tantalize your taste buds with a moist, flavorful salmon enhanced by a bright, buttery sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Both work well! If using frozen salmon, be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear!
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No problem! You can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for a similar flavor depth. If you want to mimic the acidity of wine, add a splash of vinegar or a bit of lemon juice to the broth.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it gently in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave in short bursts to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic, white wine, and butter sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it slowly in a skillet before adding freshly cooked salmon for a quick meal!
