Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad

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There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and dill that dances on your taste buds like a joyful summer festival. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, its tender, flaky texture complemented by a zesty punch of fresh lemon and aromatic dill. Now pair that with a refreshing cucumber salad, and you have yourself a culinary masterpiece that screams sunshine. Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad is not just food it’s an experience that whisks you away to sun-soaked picnics and lazy afternoons by the lake.

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I remember the first time I attempted this dish at a family gathering. My uncle, who never misses an opportunity to critique my cooking, took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I couldn’t tell if he was buttering me up or genuinely impressed, but either way, I felt like a culinary rock star. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me your taste buds will thank you.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The ease of preparation makes this dish accessible, even for beginner cooks
  • Vibrant flavors of lemon and dill create a delightful harmony with salmon
  • The beautiful presentation will wow your guests at any gathering
  • Versatile enough for any occasion, it can be served hot or cold as leftovers

One unforgettable evening, my friends surprised me with a dinner party where I showcased this recipe they devoured every last bite, leaving no room for dessert.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh fillets with bright color and firm texture for the best results.
  • Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for maximum flavor bottled varieties just don’t cut it.
  • Dill: Fresh dill brings a vibrant herbal note dried dill can work in a pinch but lacks that fresh punch.
  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while keeping the salmon moist during grilling.
  • Cucumber: Select crisp cucumbers to add refreshing crunch to the salad English cucumbers have fewer seeds and are ideal.
  • Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds sweetness and color to your cucumber salad.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in this dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma should make you feel like you’re on vacation.

Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes while you sip on something refreshing.

Grill Time: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once heated, place the marinated salmon skin-side down on the grill grates. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred.

Make the Cucumber Salad: While the salmon grills away, toss together sliced cucumbers, red onion, remaining dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in another bowl. The colors should be as vibrant as your favorite summer dress.

Serve It Up: Transfer your beautifully grilled salmon onto plates alongside that colorful cucumber salad. Don’t forget to squeeze extra lemon on top for zing

This Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad is not just food it’s a burst of summer on your plate

You Must Know

  • This Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad is not just a dish it’s an experience
  • The zesty lemon and fragrant dill create a vibrant flavor profile that will impress your taste buds
  • Plus, the refreshing cucumber salad adds a crunchy contrast to the tender salmon

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the salmon in lemon juice and dill for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your grill while preparing the cucumber salad, ensuring everything is ready to serve hot and fresh.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute salmon with other fish like trout or tilapia. You can also mix in herbs like parsley or basil for additional flavor customization.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to preserve moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve perfectly grilled salmon, ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled
  • Monitor the cooking time closely overcooking can lead to dryness
  • Always let the salmon rest before serving for optimal juiciness and flavor enhancement

Creating this Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon was a game-changer during my last family gathering everyone raved about how fresh and flavorful it was

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

What side dishes pair well with lemon dill grilled salmon?

Consider serving with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta salad.

How long does it take to grill salmon?

Typically, it takes about 6-8 minutes per side on medium heat, depending on thickness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad is a bright and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This culinary delight features tender, grilled salmon marinated in zesty lemon juice and fresh dill, paired with a crunchy cucumber salad. It’s an effortless recipe that impresses guests and satisfies your taste buds, making it ideal for barbecues or cozy dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill salmon skin-side down for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
  4. While salmon grills, toss cucumber slices, red onion, remaining dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
  5. Serve grilled salmon with cucumber salad on the side and extra lemon wedges if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with salad (270g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

 

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