Lemon Pepper And Dill Salmon Recipe

Name: Lemon Pepper and Dill Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped) or 1 tablespoon dried dill; 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added balance)

Jump to Recipe

Hey there, food lovers! If you’re a fan of quick, delicious, and healthy meals, then you’re in for a treat. Lemon Pepper and Dill Salmon is one of my absolute favorite dishes. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and loaded with health benefits. Plus, the combination of zesty lemon, bold black pepper, and fragrant dill creates a taste that’s both refreshing and savory. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a new way to enjoy salmon, this recipe is a must-try!

Place of Origin

Salmon has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, especially in Nordic, Mediterranean, and Pacific regions. People have always loved its rich, buttery texture and incredible versatility. The pairing of lemon, pepper, and dill is particularly famous in Scandinavian cooking, where fresh herbs and citrus are used to enhance the natural taste of fish. This timeless combination brings out the best in salmon, making it a beloved choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Tips for Selecting High-Quality Ingredients

Choosing the Best Salmon

Want to make the best lemon pepper and dill salmon? It all starts with choosing the right fish! Here’s what to look for:

Wild-Caught vs. Farmed: Wild-caught salmon has a firmer texture and a more robust flavor. Farmed salmon is usually fattier, making it slightly richer.
Color Matters: Fresh salmon should have a vibrant pink or orange hue. Avoid fish that looks dull or has brown spots.
Smell Check: Fresh salmon should have a mild, ocean-like scent. If it smells overly fishy, it’s past its prime.

Picking Fresh Herbs and Spices

The right seasoning can elevate your salmon from good to outstanding. Here’s how to select the best ingredients:

Fresh Dill vs. Dried Dill: Fresh dill has a bright, slightly sweet taste, while dried dill is more concentrated. If using dried, use less.
Lemon: Always go for fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice. Freshly squeezed juice and zest add an unbeatable citrusy punch.
Black Pepper: Opt for freshly ground black pepper rather than pre-ground. It delivers a more intense flavor.

How to Make Lemon Pepper and Dill Salmon

This recipe is incredibly simple, yet it delivers restaurant-quality results. Whether you bake, grill, or pan-sear your salmon, the key is balancing the flavors while keeping the fish moist and flaky.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking

Ingredients Needed

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped) or 1 tablespoon dried dill
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added balance)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and prevents excess moisture during cooking.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and chopped dill. Brush this mixture generously over both sides of the salmon fillets.

Step 3: Cooking Methods

Baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork.

Grilling

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Place salmon skin-side down on the grill.
Cook for 4-5 minutes per side.

Pan-Searing

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat with a bit of olive oil.
Cook salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

FAQs

How to make lemon and dill salmon?

Simply season salmon with olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and fresh dill. Then bake, grill, or pan-sear it until cooked through!

Do you put lemon on salmon before or after cooking?

Both! Marinating with lemon juice before cooking helps enhance the flavor, while a fresh squeeze of lemon after cooking adds a bright, zesty finish.

How to make lemon and dill sauce?

Mix ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and serve over salmon.

What is the secret to the best salmon?

The secret is using fresh, high-quality salmon and not overcooking it. Aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for the perfect flakiness!