I love how grilling salmon brings out its rich smoky flavors. Pairing it with a creamy dill sauce makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Imagine the aroma of fresh salmon sizzling on the grill, infused with herbs and spices. The tangy dill sauce adds a refreshing touch that makes this dish both elegant and comforting. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients
I gathered all the fresh ingredients to prepare the grilled salmon and the dill sauce.
For The Grilled Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
For The Dill Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Getting everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process. Follow these steps to prepare the salmon and dill sauce.
Preparing The Salmon
- Select the Salmon: Choose fresh salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each.
- Season the Fillets: Brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and your preferred seasonings evenly.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, approximately 400°F (200°C).
- Grill the Salmon: Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Rest the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Making The Dill Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh dill, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Whisk Together: Blend all ingredients until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt or lemon juice as needed for desired flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the dill sauce for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Grilling Tips
- Preheat the Grill: Heat it to medium-high (375°F to 400°F) before adding salmon. This ensures a sear and prevents sticking.
- Oil the Grates: Use a paper towel dipped in olive oil. Grill pan holders or tongs help apply the oil evenly.
- Season the Salmon: Apply olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure each fillet is evenly coated for consistent flavor.
- Control the Temperature: Maintain steady heat to cook salmon through without burning the exterior.
- Use a Marinade or Dry Rub: Enhance flavors by marinating salmon for 15 minutes or using a dry spice mix.
- Grill Skin-Side Down: Cook skin first to protect flesh and make flipping easier.
- Avoid Overcooking: Grill for 4-6 minutes per side. Check for flakes with a fork.
- Let It Rest: Remove salmon from the grill and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
I like to serve grilled salmon with:
- Steamed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for added freshness.
- Roasted potatoes or a hearty quinoa salad to complement the flavors.
- Mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a crisp contrast.
- Lemon wedges to enhance the dish’s brightness.
- Rice or couscous as a satisfying side.
For beverages, a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the rich salmon and creamy dill sauce.
Nutrition Information
I calculated the nutritional content for this grilled salmon with dill sauce recipe. Each serving contains:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 450 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Total Fat | 28 g |
– Saturated Fat | 5 g |
Cholesterol | 90 mg |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 5 g |
– Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
– Sugars | 2 g |
Vitamin D | 20 mcg |
Calcium | 150 mg |
Iron | 1.5 mg |
Potassium | 600 mg |
Grilled salmon provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart and brain health. The dill sauce adds essential fats and a creamy texture while keeping carbohydrates low. This meal offers a balanced nutritional profile ideal for a healthy diet.
Conclusion
I love how this grilled salmon with dill sauce brings together smoky flavors and creamy goodness. It’s become one of my go-to meals for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious dish as much as I do. Happy grilling!