Irresistible Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce Recipe

When you think of summer evenings, the scent of grilled salmon with dill sauce wafting through the air might just be the perfect image to conjure. Imagine that delicate fish, slightly charred on the outside, yet tender and flaky on the inside, paired with a creamy, herbaceous dill sauce. It’s like a mini-vacation for your taste buds, inviting you to indulge in fresh flavors that scream sunshine and good times.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I made grilled salmon with dill sauce for my family. The reactions were priceless—my dad licking his plate clean while my mom insisted she could eat it every day. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, cozy family dinners, or impressing that special someone. Trust me; you’ll be dreaming about this recipe long after the last forkful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Grilled salmon with dill sauce offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will wow your guests
  • It’s surprisingly easy to prepare and can be ready in under 30 minutes
  • The vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any table setting
  • Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner

I still chuckle at how my friends were convinced I had taken culinary classes after serving this delightful dish at our last get-together.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Salmon Fillets: Use fresh or frozen fillets; make sure they are skin-on for added flavor and moisture.

  • Dill: Fresh dill brings brightness; look for vibrant green fronds with no wilted leaves.

  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; skip bottled varieties for best flavor.

  • Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce; feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt if desired.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they add depth and aroma to the dill sauce.

  • Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and helps prevent sticking on the grill.

  • Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings are essential for enhancing all those amazing flavors; don’t skip them!

For the Sauce:

  • Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy kick to the sauce; choose whole grain for added texture.

  • Capers: These little bursts of flavor give your sauce an unexpected twist; rinse them well before using.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Grill: Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). This ensures a nice sear on your salmon, locking in those delicious juices.

Prepare Your Salmon Fillets: Pat your salmon dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step makes all the difference in flavor!

Create Your Dill Sauce: In a bowl, mix together sour cream, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and capers until smooth. This creamy concoction will elevate your grilled fish.

Grill Your Salmon: Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place salmon skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Serve With Style : Once done grilling, remove salmon from heat. Drizzle that luscious dill sauce over each fillet generously. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra dill if you’re feeling fancy!

Enjoy this delightful meal immediately while it’s hot off the grill! The combination of smoky salmon and creamy dill will keep you coming back for seconds—if there are any left!

Now that you’re all set for an unforgettable dining experience with grilled salmon with dill sauce, let’s dive into some tips on how to customize this recipe based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry!

You Must Know

  • Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that elevates any gathering
  • The fresh aroma of dill and lemon wafting through the air makes it feel like a gourmet dish, even on a busy weeknight

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect grilled salmon, start by marinating the fish while preheating your grill. Grill on medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes per side for juicy results.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping dill with basil for a unique flavor twist or adding capers for an extra zing. You can also serve with roasted veggies for a colorful plate.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to maintain moisture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture
  • It makes a noticeable difference in every bite
  • For grilling, ensure your grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking
  • Don’t skip letting your salmon rest after cooking; it keeps it tender

Sharing my first attempt at grilled salmon always brings a smile. Friends raved about the flavor, and I felt like a culinary rock star—definitely motivated me to keep experimenting!

FAQs

FAQ

What type of salmon is best for grilling?

Wild-caught sockeye or king salmon offers rich flavor and firm texture perfect for grilling.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before grilling for even cooking.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Print
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Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce


  • Author: Mark Taylor
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Grilled salmon with dill sauce is a summer delight that brings together fresh flavors and easy preparation. This dish features tender, flaky salmon fillets perfectly grilled to a smoky finish and topped with a creamy dill sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, this vibrant meal is sure to impress.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp capers, rinsed

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
  2. Pat the salmon dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, mix the sour cream, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and capers until smooth.
  4. Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the salmon skin-side down for 6-8 minutes per side or until it flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Serve hot with the dill sauce drizzled over the top and garnish with lemon wedges.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For a unique twist, substitute dill with basil or add roasted vegetables for color. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently at 350°F.

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