Crispy Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce

When it comes to succulent seafood dishes, Crispy Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce reigns supreme. This delightful recipe not only brings the ocean’s best flavors to your table but also combines a satisfying crunch with a refreshing zesty sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Baked Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

For the Lemon Dill Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Salmon

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Breading: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.

3. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that crispy exterior. Place the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Coat the Salmon: Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salmon fillets. Then, generously press the breadcrumb mixture onto each fillet, ensuring they are well-coated.

5. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the top is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Making the Lemon Dill Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

2. Chill: Let the sauce chill in the refrigerator while the salmon bakes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving

Once your salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the crispy salmon fillets with a generous drizzle of the lemon dill sauce on top. Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or fluffy quinoa for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon whenever possible for its superior flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and have a slight sheen.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. They are lighter and crispier, making them perfect for this recipe.

• Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your salmon as cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fillets. Overcooking can lead to dry salmon, so aim for a perfectly flaky texture.

• Substitutions: If you prefer a different type of fish, you can substitute salmon with cod, tilapia, or trout. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the thickness of the fillets.

• Dill Alternatives: Fresh dill is recommended for its bright and aromatic flavor, but if unavailable, dried dill will work as well. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Flavor Pairings and Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing the crispy baked salmon with:

• Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully with the zesty lemon dill sauce, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

• Sides: Roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes make excellent accompaniments.

• Garnish: Fresh lemon wedges and sprigs of dill are not only visually appealing but also add a burst of fresh flavor when served.

Further Exploration

If you’re eager to explore more about cooking seafood or enhancing your culinary skills, consider checking out these resources:

• Seafood Nutrition Partnership for information on the health benefits of incorporating seafood into your diet.
• Cooking Techniques for Seafood for mastering various cooking methods.

By trying out this Crispy Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious meal but also honing your cooking skills. The combination of crispy salmon and creamy, zesty sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations, and happy cooking!