Imagine a dish so divine, it transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. This Baked Salmon with Yogurt Dill Sauce isn't just a meal—it's a culinary journey that combines the rich, buttery texture of perfectly cooked salmon with a bright, tangy yogurt sauce that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the baking dish. Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
- Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures a better sear.
- Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish, skin-side down. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of the fillets, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking dish in the oven. Bake the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- While the salmon is baking, prepare the yogurt dill sauce. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
- Taste the yogurt dill sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add more lemon juice to your liking.
- Once the salmon is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist fillet.
- To serve, place each salmon fillet on a plate and generously spoon the yogurt dill sauce over the top. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with additional fresh dill or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious baked salmon with yogurt dill sauce!
Tips
- Choose high-quality salmon: Look for fresh, bright-colored fillets with firm flesh and a clean ocean smell.
- Pat salmon dry before cooking: This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior and prevents steaming.
- Don't overcook: Salmon is best when it's still slightly translucent in the center. Use a fork to check for easy flaking.
- Temperature matters: An oven preheated to 400°F ensures even cooking and helps maintain the salmon's moisture.
- Let it rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices, keeping the fish tender and succulent.
- Customize your sauce: Feel free to experiment with the yogurt dill sauce by adding garlic, capers, or a touch of honey for extra flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 115kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 19mg
