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Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Dill Butter That Kids Love

easy baked salmon with lemon dill butter - featured image

This easy baked salmon with lemon dill butter is proof that you don’t need a complicated recipe or a perfect plan to get a delicious, family-friendly meal on the table. The butter keeps the salmon tender, the lemon adds brightness, and the dill brings a fresh, herby note that even picky eaters seem to love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, fresh dill, and minced garlic (if using). Stir together.
  4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if they have skin. Pour the lemon dill butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If using a thermometer, aim for 125°F (52°C) for medium, or 135°F (57°C) for well-done.
  6. While the salmon bakes, in a separate small bowl, mix the softened butter, lemon zest, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Set aside.
  7. When the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Then top each fillet with a small dollop of the lemon dill butter.
  8. Serve immediately. Spoon a little extra pan butter over the top before serving.

Notes

Pat the salmon dry for a better crust. Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking for even cooking. Watch the clock closely; salmon can go from perfectly flaky to dry quickly. Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. For different thicknesses, check thinner fillets first and remove early if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked salmon, lemon dill butter, easy salmon recipe, kid-friendly salmon, quick salmon dinner, healthy salmon recipe