Looking for a show-stopping salmon recipe that’s both flavorful and easy to make? This Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce is a perfect choice. The salmon is coated with a crispy, herby crust and baked to perfection, while the tangy lemon-dill sauce adds a refreshing twist. Ideal for dinner parties, special occasions, or even a weeknight treat, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
For the Herb-Crusted Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon-Dill Sauce:
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Crust
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, thyme, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients form a crumbly texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Season the tops of the fillets with salt and black pepper.
- Press the herb crust mixture evenly onto the tops of the salmon fillets, ensuring it sticks well.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
- Transfer the salmon to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork, and the herb crust is golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Lemon-Dill Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, and refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the herb-crusted salmon and drizzle with the creamy lemon-dill sauce.
- Pair with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley or dill for an elegant finish.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories (per serving): ~380 kcal
- Protein (per serving): ~34 g
Tips for Perfect Herb-Crusted Salmon
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for fresh salmon fillets with bright, firm flesh for the best results.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free yogurt for the sauce.
- Cook Time Variation: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets—thicker cuts may require a few extra minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones, but reduce the quantity to about 1 teaspoon each since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy it cold over a salad.
Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Place the herb-crusted salmon on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for about 10-12 minutes, using foil if needed to prevent sticking.
What pairs well with this dish?
This salmon pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a lemony quinoa salad.
Conclusion
This Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce is the perfect balance of crispy, flaky, and creamy. With its easy preparation and sophisticated flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for both casual dinners and special celebrations. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.