Baked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried or fresh dill, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, and brush each fillet with the marinade on both sides, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Cover the salmon with foil or plastic wrap, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
5. Remove the cover, and bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. While the salmon is baking, you can prepare the Lemon-Dill Sauce (see below).
7. Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
8. Serve the Baked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce over a bed of rice or quinoa.
9. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh dill sprigs for an extra touch of freshness.
10. Enjoy the flavorful and nutritious Baked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce!

Lemon-Dill Sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Lemon-Dill Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, and honey (if using) until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Refrigerate the Lemon-Dill Sauce until ready to serve.

History:

Baked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce is a modern and popular dish that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh salmon and aromatic dill.

The combination of lemon and dill complements the rich taste of salmon, making it a favorite choice for seafood enthusiasts.

While the origins of this specific dish are not well-documented, it reflects the growing appreciation for healthy and delicious recipes that feature wholesome ingredients.

Interesting Facts:

- Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.

- Dill has been used in culinary traditions for centuries and is known for its refreshing and slightly tangy flavor.

- The Lemon-Dill Sauce adds a creamy and zesty element to the dish, enhancing its overall taste and texture.

- Baking salmon is a simple and healthy cooking method that preserves its natural moisture and flavor.

Note: You can adjust the baking time depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Be careful not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.