Baked Salmon with Dill Butter

I remember a crisp autumn evening, windows slightly ajar, letting in the cool air while the kitchen buzzed with a quiet anticipation. My daughter had just started appreciating fish, and I wanted to make something truly special without hours of fuss. This baked salmon with dill butter, with its vibrant green flecks and zesty aroma, instantly became our go-to for making even the simplest dinner feel like a celebration.

One Friday night, after a particularly long week, I tossed this together almost on autopilot. My partner walked in, and the scent of roasting salmon mingled with fresh dill instantly lifted his spirits. We ended up eating it straight from the baking sheet, laughing about our day, realizing sometimes the best meals are the ones that demand the least from you and give back the most comfort.

Ingredients

• Salmon Fillets: Always opt for fresh, high-quality fillets, whether skin-on or off, as their inherent richness is the star of this dish.
• Olive Oil: Just a drizzle helps create that beautiful golden crust and keeps the salmon from sticking, adding a subtle depth of flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Make sure it's softened to room temperature so it blends effortlessly with the herbs and citrus, creating a truly creamy dill butter.
• Fresh Dill: This herb is non-negotiable here; its delicate, almost sweet anise notes are what give the butter its signature bright flavor.
• Lemon Zest & Juice: The zest brings a potent, aromatic brightness, while the juice adds that essential tangy counterpoint to the richness of the salmon and butter.
• Garlic: A single minced clove is all you need to add a subtle warmth and aromatic complexity without overpowering the delicate dill.
• Salt & Black Pepper: These foundational seasonings enhance every other flavor, so don't be shy in seasoning your fillets.
• Lemon Wedges & Extra Dill: These aren't just for show; a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of dill right before serving truly awaken the dish.

Instructions

Get the Oven Ready:

Let's kick things off by preheating your oven to a cozy 200°C (400°F) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper — this makes cleanup a breeze.

Prepare the Salmon:

Gently pat your beautiful salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels; this ensures a lovely sear and helps the seasoning adhere perfectly.

Season with Love:

Place the fillets on your prepared sheet, brush them lightly with olive oil, and then sprinkle generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, making sure every surface is seasoned.

Whip Up the Dill Butter:

In a small bowl, combine your softened butter, vibrant chopped dill, fragrant lemon zest, a splash of lemon juice, and the minced garlic; stir it all together until it's beautifully blended and creamy.

Butter the Fish:

Carefully spread about half of that glorious dill butter mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring an even coating that will melt into a golden crust.

Into the Oven It Goes:

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the magic happen for about 14&ndash18 minutes, or until the fish effortlessly flakes when tested with a fork and its center is perfectly opaque.

A Moment's Rest:

Once out of the oven, allow the salmon to rest on the sheet for just 2 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.

Final Flourish & Serve:

Top each warm fillet with a dollop of the remaining dill butter, and if you're feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh dill and a bright lemon wedge; serve it up immediately and watch it disappear!

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There was a summer evening, a gentle breeze rustling through the kitchen window, when my youngest, usually a picky eater, declared this salmon 'my favorite fish ever.' It wasn't just a meal that night; it was a small victory, a moment of shared joy, and the feeling that I'd unlocked a new way to bring warmth to our table.

The Secret to Succulent Salmon

That seemingly small step of patting the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning It's a game-changer. It allows the olive oil and seasonings to adhere better, and crucially, it helps develop that gorgeous, slightly crispy exterior instead of steaming the fish.

Variations to Keep Things Exciting

While the dill butter is a classic, don't be afraid to experiment. Sometimes I'll add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter for a little kick, or if I'm out of dill, fresh parsley with a hint of chives makes a delightful substitute. It's about making the dish yours!

Making it a Complete Meal

This salmon is wonderfully versatile. I love serving it alongside simple roasted asparagus and some fluffy quinoa for a light, healthy dinner. But it's equally at home with creamy mashed potatoes or even a vibrant citrus salad if you want to lean into that fresh, zesty profile.

• For an easy side, toss some cherry tomatoes and green beans on the same baking sheet during the last 10 minutes.
• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.
• Leftovers, if you have any, are fantastic flaked over a salad the next day.

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This baked salmon with dill butter isn't just a recipe; it's an invitation to create something truly delicious and memorable with minimal fuss. I hope it brings as much joy and deliciousness to your kitchen as it has to mine.

Your Recipe Questions

→ What's the best way to ensure the salmon is perfectly cooked?

Bake the salmon for 14-18 minutes at 200°C (400°F), or until it easily flakes with a fork and is just opaque in the center. Avoid overcooking to maintain its succulence.

→ Can I prepare the dill butter ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dill butter can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Soften it slightly before spreading on the salmon.

→ What are some good side dishes to serve with this?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, asparagus, or a fresh garden salad. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc also complements the flavors beautifully.

→ I don't have fresh dill. Can I use dried dill?

While fresh dill offers the best flavor, you can substitute dried dill. Use about one-third of the amount of fresh dill, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Taste and adjust as needed.

→ Is it okay to use skinless salmon fillets?

Yes, skin-on or skinless fillets both work well for this preparation. If using skin-on, the skin can help keep the fish moist and crispy on the bottom. Just ensure to pat them dry.

→ How can I add more flavor to the salmon before baking?

For an extra layer of taste, you can marinate the salmon in a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil for about 15 minutes before proceeding with the baking steps.