Easy Healthy Baked Lemon-Dill Salmon Recipe
This post may contain affiliate links (disclosure).
This baked lemon-dill salmon recipe is so healthy and delicious! It’s really easy to make – just top the salmon with fresh dill, minced garlic and lemon slices and bake in the oven until done! Easy, tasty, healthy, fresh – yum!
Why You’ll Love Easy Healthy Baked Lemon-Dill Salmon
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and dill creates a bright, refreshing flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the salmon.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3s and protein, this recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and fits many popular diets, including Whole30 and Paleo.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients to make this dish, making it ideal for a quick grocery trip.
- Effortless Preparation: No complicated techniques are needed—just assemble, bake, and enjoy in less than 30 minutes.
- Versatile: This recipe works well with different types of fish and can be paired with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal.
OMG! Who can resist this baked salmon with fresh dill and fresh lemon slices on top? As the salmon bakes, the lemon juice gets released from the lemon slices and flavors the salmon – amazing!
Another ingredient here that flavors the salmon in addition to lemon and dill is garlic. Before we bake the salmon, we rub it with minced garlic and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Lemon, garlic and dill – this is the perfect flavoring combo to go with the fish!
You can use any kind of fish for this recipe, not just salmon. You just can’t go wrong with these ingredients – any fish will be yummy when it’s baked with this fresh delicious stuff!
Ingredients for Easy Healthy Baked Lemon-Dill Salmon
- Salmon fillets – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is the star of this dish.
- Lemon – Adds a zesty brightness and helps tenderize the fish as it bakes.
- Garlic – Provides a savory depth of flavor that complements the lemon and dill.
- Fresh dill – Brings a vibrant, herby taste to the dish; essential for this recipe.
- Salt and black pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
If you are trying to eat healthy, this lemon-dill salmon recipe is the ultimate health food! It passes any kind of weight loss diet requirements – High-Protein, Low-Carb, Low-Fat, Paleo, Gluten-Free, Whole 30, Mediterranean, Weight Watchers, South Beach, Zone – you name it! This recipe uses all natural and unprocessed ingredients, no carbs, no gluten and no added fat!
And of course you don’t need to be on a diet to enjoy this baked lemon-dill salmon :) It’s just so naturally delicious that it doesn’t need any fat to make it better! This recipe uses just 4 ingredients, all of which are incredibly nutritious and full of vitamins and antioxidants – (1) salmon, (2) dill, (3) lemon, (4) garlic.
Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Easy Healthy Baked Lemon-Dill Salmon
- Baking sheet – To bake the salmon fillets evenly.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Knife and cutting board – For slicing the lemon and chopping the dill.
- Measuring spoons – Ensures accurate seasoning for the perfect flavor.
Another wonderful thing about this salmon recipe is that is extremely easy to make! Baking the fish is so much easier than frying – no need to stand over the stove and deal with the splattering oil. You put the fish in the oven and take it out when ready – even the most inexperienced cook can pull this off!
How To Make Easy Healthy Baked Lemon-Dill Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Rub minced garlic over the salmon fillets to infuse them with rich flavor.
- Season the fillets with salt and pepper for a well-balanced taste.
- Sprinkle fresh dill generously on top of the salmon for a vibrant, herby touch.
- Layer thin slices of lemon over the fillets to add a zesty, fresh flavor.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot for a delicious and healthy meal.
Dill is an underutilized spice in the US, even though it tastes so delicious! I’m originally from Russia where dill is a very popular herb, and I use it quite often. If you have leftover dill after making this lemon-dill salmon, you can use it up by making my cucumber lemon-dill salad – yum!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this baked lemon-dill salmon with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, for a colorful and nutrient-packed plate.
- Pair it with a light salad, like a cucumber and dill salad, to echo the flavors of the dish.
- Add a serving of quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Drizzle a little extra lemon juice over the salmon just before serving for an extra burst of citrus.
- Present it on a large platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh dill for a stunning and inviting table centerpiece.
Tips For Success
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh salmon, dill, and lemon for the best flavor. Frozen salmon works too, but make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork, which is typically at an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Season Generously: Since salmon has a rich, natural flavor, a good amount of garlic, dill, and lemon enhances its taste without overpowering it.
- Line the Baking Sheet: Using parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents the fish from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Customize for Other Fish: This recipe works wonderfully with other types of fish, like cod, trout, or sole. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.
- Prep in Advance: For an even faster dinner, you can prep the salmon ahead of time by seasoning and assembling the ingredients, then store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Variations And Substitutions
- Switch the Herbs: If you’re out of fresh dill, try parsley, cilantro, or even a mix of dried herbs like Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the salmon for a subtle heat.
- Citrus Alternatives: Swap lemon slices for lime or orange for a unique twist on the classic citrus flavor.
- Garlic Options: If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can use garlic powder as a substitute—just sprinkle it evenly over the fillets.
- Different Fish: This recipe works beautifully with other fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish to avoid overcooking.
- Dairy-Friendly Twist: Add a dollop of creamy yogurt or sour cream mixed with dill and garlic as a topping before serving for a richer flavor.
- Whole Fish Option: Use the same seasoning on a whole salmon or trout for a show-stopping centerpiece at dinner parties.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing it. Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the salmon gently in a 275°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain its moisture and prevent overcooking.
- Cold Option: This salmon tastes great cold! Use the leftovers in salads or wraps for a quick and healthy lunch.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the spices and herbs stick better and ensures even cooking.
What’s the best way to check if salmon is done?
The easiest way to tell is by using a fork. Gently press the fork into the thickest part of the salmon—if it flakes easily and has an opaque color, it’s done. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can season the salmon and assemble it with the garlic, dill, and lemon slices ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free. It uses fresh, wholesome ingredients without butter or cream, making it perfect for dairy-free diets.
What sides go well with this salmon?
This baked lemon-dill salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, rice pilaf, or a light garden salad. It’s versatile and works with a variety of side dishes.
Other Easy Salmon Recipes
Instant Pot Salmon Packets: These perfectly steamed salmon packets are infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, all cooked effortlessly in the Instant Pot.
Air Fryer Frozen Salmon Patties: Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these air fryer salmon patties are a quick and healthy meal straight from the freezer.
Easy Canned Salmon Chowder: This creamy and hearty chowder is packed with the rich flavors of canned salmon, potatoes, and comforting spices.
Cheesy Mayo Baked Salmon Fillets: Tender salmon fillets are topped with a rich cheese and mayo crust, baked to golden perfection.
Low-Carb Salmon Salad (Fresh or Canned): This refreshing and keto-friendly salmon salad combines crisp veggies with either fresh or canned salmon for a light yet satisfying dish.
Spicy Cajun Grilled Salmon: Coated with bold Cajun spices, this grilled salmon is smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor.
Creamy Smoked Salmon Dip with Cream Cheese: This rich and savory dip blends smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh dill for the ultimate appetizer.
Baked Lemon-Dill Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillets
- 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 bunch fresh dill chopped
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425F.
- Slice the lemon into thin slices.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Put the salmon fillets on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Rub the salmon with minced garlic.
- Sprinkle the salmon with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the salmon with fresh dill.
- Layer the lemon slices on top of the salmon.
- Put the salmon in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
My absolute favourite fish! This is so FRESH and delicious, Melanie.
Delicious dish Melanie! :) My favourite salmon is here. My mouth filled up water. Thanks for sharing it with us.
I’m a huge fan of dill, and this recipe showcases it perfectly. Yum!
So happy I found this recipe healthy, simple, and delicious!