Name: Best Salmon Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Lemon wedges for serving

Pin1

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Salmon is a go-to ingredient for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. This Baked Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce recipe elevates the natural richness of salmon by pairing it with a smooth and tangy dill sauce that enhances the fish’s delicate flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a romantic evening, or a gathering of friends, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. The key to the dish’s success is its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find and the steps are straightforward, yet the result is a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The creamy sauce, infused with fresh dill and zesty lemon juice, provides the perfect contrast to the tender, flaky salmon. The Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch, creating a textural contrast that makes every bite satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spread the creamy dill mixture evenly over each fillet.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the salmon fillets.
Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help with browning.

Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve the salmon hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

This recipe for Baked Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with a rich and tangy topping. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a nutritious and delicious seafood meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The use of fresh dill and lemon juice gives the dish a refreshing, bright flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds a crispy and savory element to the creamy sauce.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is widely regarded as one of the healthiest proteins available, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction. It’s also rich in high-quality protein, essential vitamins (like Vitamin D and B12), and minerals such as selenium and potassium. This makes salmon an excellent choice for those wanting to maintain a balanced diet or focus on weight management.

The Creamy Dill Sauce

The creamy sauce in this recipe is a simple combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill. Each of these ingredients contributes to the overall taste and texture of the dish:

Mayonnaise and sour cream provide a rich, smooth base that balances out the natural oils of the salmon.

Dijon mustard adds a subtle hint of sharpness and depth to the sauce, while also working well with the dill.
Fresh dill brings a refreshing herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with fish, making the sauce taste light yet flavorful.
Lemon juice cuts through the richness of the sauce, giving it a bright, tangy finish that complements the salmon perfectly.

Cooking Tips and Adjustments

Choosing Salmon: For this recipe, fresh, wild-caught salmon is ideal for the best flavor and texture. If wild-caught salmon isn’t available, farmed salmon works well too, but you may notice a richer flavor and higher fat content.
Cooking Time: One of the keys to cooking salmon perfectly is ensuring that it doesn’t overcook. The fish should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part. When done, the salmon should flake easily with a fork but still remain moist and tender.
Customizing the Sauce: If you prefer a lighter version of the sauce, you can substitute Greek yogurt for part or all of the mayonnaise and sour cream. This will also increase the protein content of the dish without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Pairing Options: This salmon dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or steamed asparagus. A side of quinoa or wild rice can also complement the flavors of the salmon and make for a more filling meal.

Serving Ideas

This baked salmon is versatile enough to be served for both casual family dinners or more formal occasions. If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider garnishing the dish with extra fresh dill or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a more elegant presentation. For a casual weeknight meal, serve the salmon with lemon wedges and a quick side of steamed vegetables for a wholesome, balanced plate.

Nutritional Information

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also provides a range of health benefits:

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving.
Protein: A rich source of high-quality protein, ideal for muscle repair and maintenance.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The salmon is packed with heart-healthy fats, which are known to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Low Carb and Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including low-carb and gluten-sensitive diets.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Balance of Flavors: The creamy dill sauce is the star of the show in this recipe. The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice creates a well-balanced flavor profile. The mayonnaise and sour cream add richness, while the mustard and lemon juice provide brightness and acidity, perfectly complementing the salmon’s natural oils.
Health Benefits: As mentioned earlier, salmon is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, B12, and selenium. The recipe itself is gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re following a low-carb or keto diet or simply aiming for a healthy, balanced meal, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Customizable to Taste: This dish is easily customizable. You can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt if you want to lighten up the sauce, or add extra herbs like parsley or chives to give the sauce more depth. Additionally, you can pair the salmon with various sides depending on the occasion. Serve it with steamed asparagus, quinoa, or a hearty vegetable medley for a complete meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is also great for meal prepping. You can prepare the creamy dill sauce ahead of time, and the salmon itself holds up well when reheated. Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Kid-Friendly Option: Despite being a sophisticated dish, this baked salmon is mild enough for kids to enjoy. The creamy dill sauce adds a familiar, comforting taste without overwhelming young palates. If you have picky eaters at home, this might be a great way to introduce them to seafood.

Conclusion:

The Baked Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce is more than just a quick, nutritious meal; it’s a dish that brings together the best of flavor, health benefits, and ease of preparation. In a world where many of us are juggling busy schedules, it’s essential to have recipes like this one that require minimal effort but offer maximum flavor and nutrition. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, and pairing it with this creamy dill sauce only enhances its natural richness. The combination of fresh dill, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan creates layers of flavor that keep each bite interesting. Plus, this recipe is flexible enough to be adapted to your preferences, whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking to switch things up in the kitchen.