Description
Grilled Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce
Ingredients:
2 salmon fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 lemon, halved and grilled
Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Creamy Dill Sauce:
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky.
4. While the salmon is grilling, prepare the dill sauce by mixing the sour cream, dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
5. Serve the grilled salmon topped with the creamy dill sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair with grilled lemon halves for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Grill the Salmon: Place the salmon on the grill, skin-side down. Do not move it for 4-5 minutes to allow a crust to form. Carefully flip with a spatula and grill for another 3-4 minutes on the flesh side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the flesh flakes easily.
4. Grill the Lemon: While the salmon cooks, place the lemon halves cut-side down on the grill for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
6. Serve: Plate the salmon, top with a generous dollop of dill sauce, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with the grilled lemon halves for squeezing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or with grilled asparagus. For something heartier, consider garlic mashed potatoes, quinoa pilaf, or roasted baby potatoes. The creamy dill sauce also complements steamed green beans or a simple cucumber salad perfectly.
How-to Summary
Grill seasoned salmon fillets over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side. Simultaneously, mix sour cream, fresh dill, lemon juice, and garlic powder to create a quick sauce. Serve the flaky salmon topped with the sauce and a garnish of fresh parsley and grilled lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salmon in the oven? Absolutely. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily.
What can I use instead of sour cream? Full-fat Greek yogurt or crème fraîche are excellent substitutes for a tangy, creamy sauce.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator; the flavors will meld and intensify.
Is it necessary to grill the lemon? While not strictly necessary, grilling caramelizes the lemon’s sugars, adding a deeper, sweeter, and less acidic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Salmon: Skipping the step of patting the fillets dry leads to steaming instead of grilling, preventing a nice crust.
- Moving the Salmon Too Soon: Flipping the fish before it releases from the grates will cause it to tear. Let it sear undisturbed.
- Overcooking: Salmon continues to cook after removal from heat. Pull it off just as it becomes opaque and flaky to keep it moist.
- Using Dried Dill: For the sauce, fresh dill is essential. Dried dill lacks the bright, aromatic flavor needed for this recipe.
Conclusion
Grilled Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce is an elegant yet straightforward dish perfect for any occasion. Mastering the simple techniques of proper searing and sauce-making results in a restaurant-quality meal at home. With its perfect balance of smoky, rich, and tangy flavors, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire.