Baked salmon with lemon and dill is a timeless dish that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep, this meal delivers bold, clean flavors that highlight the natural richness of the salmon. It’s an ideal choice for a healthy weeknight dinner or a low-effort dish that still feels special enough for guests.
At the heart of this recipe is a fillet of salmon, which bakes beautifully in the oven until it’s moist, flaky, and tender. The key to its flavor lies in the classic combination of lemon and dill. Lemon brightens the dish with acidity and freshness, cutting through the buttery texture of the fish, while dill adds a delicate, herbal note that complements seafood perfectly.
Preparation couldn’t be easier. A drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a scattering of chopped fresh dill over the salmon is often all that’s needed. Some cooks add thin lemon slices on top to infuse the fillet with citrus as it bakes. You can also season with salt, pepper, and garlic or shallots for a slightly deeper flavor.
Baking the salmon in foil or parchment paper helps lock in moisture and allows the flavors to meld gently without drying out the fish. Depending on the thickness of your fillet, it usually takes 12 to 18 minutes in a preheated oven. The result is a perfectly cooked piece of fish that flakes easily with a fork and has a fresh, zesty aroma.
This dish pairs beautifully with light sides like roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, couscous, or a lemony quinoa salad. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or a crisp cucumber salad. It’s also delicious cold the next day, flaked over greens or mixed into a salmon salad.
Baked salmon with lemon and dill is proof that simple ingredients, when used well, can create something truly satisfying. It’s clean, flavorful, and nourishing, making it a go-to for anyone who loves uncomplicated, wholesome meals.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 Lemon sliced
- 4 sprigs dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lay a few slices of lemon on top of each fillet.
- Place a sprig of dill on top of each fillet.
- Drizzle the salmon with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
I tried it but my fish was kinda dry. Maybe I had it in too long? 🤷♂️
Hmmm, I used the wrong type of fish and it didn’t turn out great. I think halibut was too thick.
Using halibut instead of salmon can be tricky! I suggest trying it again with the right fish, it makes a big difference.
Oops, halibut is different!! But sometimes thick fish can be alright if you cook it right. Still, salmon is the best for this recipe.
Very simple and quick, but I wish there was more flavor. I added garlic and it helped!
Meh, I don’t think salmon and lemon belong together. Just not my thing.
Really easy and quick to make. Will make again for sure!
Not sure if I did something wrong, but the dill flavor was kinda mild. Next time I’ll use more dill or chop it finer.
Why didn’t you mention how to know when it’s done cooking!? I overcooked mine.
I’m not a fish person, but this was actually easy. I over-salted though, whoops. The lemon saved it.
Not sure why everyone loves this recipe? My salmon turned out dry. Might be my oven, I guess…
So good! I added some garlic and it took it to another level!
Really? Garlic? That’s a bit too strong for fish, isn’t it? Lemon and dill are perfect as is.
Garlic does make everything better! I might try that next time. Thanks for the tip!
Can I use frozen salmon? Just wondering if that works too?
Is olive oil really necessary? I just used butter and it was pretty tasty. Anyway, this was okay, not great.
I loved it! The parchment made cleanup super easy and the olive oil helped it brown just a bit. Will make again.
I don’t know what everyone’s talking about, but salmon is too fishy for me. I prefer chicken.
You don’t like fish?? Seriously?? It’s the best! Anyway, to each their own I guess.
I get it! Salmon can be strong for some. Chicken’s really versatile too!
This recipe is a keeper! The lemon and dill combo is delightful. My whole family loved it!
Looks good, but I’m not sure about dill. I’ve always used parsley instead. Anyone else feel the same?
I’m glad your family enjoyed it! I tried this too, and it was really tasty! Will make it again!
I don’t know how you expect me to cook salmon with this, it seems too plain and boring. What a waste of fish.
375°F seems a bit low? I baked mine and it was a little dry, so I probably overdid the time by a few minutes.
I don’t know, I found the salmon a bit too oily. Maybe I drizzled too much?
Quick and simple, but I would’ve liked to see more detailed instructions.
I agree! More detail would help a lot. Like how about cooking time for different thicknesses of salmon? I had to guess!
Best salmon recipe ever! The dill and lemon combo is perfect. Will make again!