There’s something magical about the aroma of Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon wafting through the air, mingling with the zesty notes of fresh cucumber salad. The moment you take a bite, the flaky salmon melts in your mouth, while the crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch that dances on your palate.
This dish isn’t just for summer barbecues it’s perfect for those cozy family dinners or even when you’re trying to impress that special someone. With each bite, you’ll experience a flavor explosion that will have you reminiscing about beachside picnics and sun-drenched afternoons.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad is not only simple to prepare but also bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors
- The stunning presentation will make it the star of any table
- You can easily modify it to fit various dietary preferences and occasions, making it incredibly versatile
- It’s perfect for summer grilling but delicious enough to enjoy year-round
Every time I whip up this Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon, my friends rave about how I must have been a chef in another life. Their delighted faces as they dig in are priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for vibrant, firm fillets with no fishy odor for best results.
- Dill: Fresh dill enhances the dish’s flavor significantly dried dill works in a pinch but lacks freshness.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor bottled lemon juice just doesn’t cut it.
- Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch English cucumbers are mild and perfect for salads.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil adds richness extra virgin is always a great choice.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavor profile avoid pre-minced varieties for best taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preparation of Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill until blended. This fragrant mixture will be your salmon’s best friend.
Marinating the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature this makes them infuse with those delightful flavors.
Preparing the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking while cooking these beauties.
Grilling the Salmon: Carefully place marinated salmon on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
Making Cucumber Salad: While salmon cooks, slice cucumbers thinly and toss them in a bowl with remaining dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This quick salad adds refreshing crunch alongside your grilled masterpiece.
Serving Up Your Dish: Once cooked through, remove salmon from grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve alongside cucumber salad and garnish with additional lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy every flavorful bite
You Must Know
- This delightful Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad elevates your grilling game
- The freshness of the ingredients and the zesty flavor profile make it a summer favorite
- It’s not just delicious it’s a feast for the eyes, too
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the salmon, then grill it while preparing the cucumber salad for a seamless experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap dill for parsley or add avocado for extra creaminess in your salad.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal results, use fresh salmon for a richer taste
- Be mindful of overcooking to keep your fish juicy
- Pairing with a crisp white wine enhances the meal beautifully
Sharing this dish with friends at my backyard BBQ brought laughter and compliments, making it a memorable evening filled with flavor and joy.
FAQ
What should I serve with Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon?
Pair it with rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and grilling.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon paired with a refreshing cucumber salad is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. This easy-to-make recipe features flaky salmon marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic dill, grilled to perfection, and served alongside crisp cucumbers tossed in a light dressing. Ideal for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) fresh salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup firm cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill in a bowl to create the marinade.
- Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates.
- Grill salmon skin-side down for 5-6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
- Meanwhile, combine sliced cucumbers with remaining dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Once cooked, let salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving with cucumber salad and additional lemon wedges if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with salad (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg