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Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe


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4.1 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This elegant salmon recipe features tender oven-baked salmon fillets topped with a rich and creamy dill sauce that combines butter, cream, fresh dill, shallots, and zesty lemon. Perfectly cooked to maintain a silky texture, this dish is both flavorful and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.


Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1 pound salmon fillet
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Creamy Dill Sauce

  • 1½ tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the salmon fillet on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the salmon with olive oil and season evenly with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bake on the center rack for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the fillet, until the internal temperature reaches 120-125°F for medium doneness, ensuring tender, silky flesh. Remove and transfer the salmon to a serving plate.
  2. Prep Ingredients for Sauce: While the salmon bakes, finely dice the shallots and chop the fresh dill. Using a microplane grater, zest the lemon and then juice it, keeping both zest and juice aside.
  3. Sauté Shallots: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced shallots and a pinch of the remaining kosher salt. Cook the shallots gently for about 3 to 5 minutes until tender and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
  4. Simmer Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the shallots and bring it up to a low simmer. Allow the cream to reduce by approximately one-quarter and thicken slightly over about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to incorporate flavors.
  5. Finish the Dill Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining kosher salt, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine all flavors harmoniously.
  6. Serve: Spoon the creamy dill sauce generously over the baked salmon on the serving plate. Garnish with fresh lemon zest and additional dill if desired. Reserve extra sauce to serve on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Cooking time for the salmon depends on the thickness of the fillet; thicker cuts may require a few extra minutes.
  • Ensure not to overcook the salmon to maintain its silky texture.
  • Fresh dill is key for the best flavor in the sauce, but you can substitute with dried dill if necessary—use about 1½ teaspoons.
  • Use a microplane grater for zesting the lemon to avoid the bitter white pith.
  • This sauce can also be served chilled as a dip for smoked salmon appetizers.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American