Grilled Salmon with Shallot Dill Sauce

Introduction

There’s something magical about a perfectly grilled piece of salmon—its delicate, flaky texture paired with the smoky flavor from the grill is pure culinary bliss. But what really takes this dish to the next level is the shallot dill sauce. This recipe is inspired by summer barbecues with friends, where fresh, simple ingredients turn into something unforgettable. If you’re looking for a quick, impressive meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, this grilled salmon with shallot dill sauce is a must-try. Plus, it’s on the table in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 1½ pounds skin-on salmon fillets (about 1-inch thick)
• 1½ tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Fresh dill for garnish

For the Shallot Dill Sauce:

• ⅔ cup sour cream
• 1 small shallot, finely diced (about ¼ cup)
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, minced
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What makes this grilled salmon so special? It’s all in the combination of the rich, buttery salmon with the bright and tangy shallot dill sauce. The sauce is creamy yet light, with a hint of lemon that perfectly balances the flavors. Plus, grilling the salmon gives it a crispy skin and a slightly charred flavor that’s hard to resist. This dish is not just a weeknight hero; it’s a show-stopper at any dinner party.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shallot Dill Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, diced shallot, minced dill, and lemon zest.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the salmon.

Grilling the Salmon:

1. Preheat your grill to high heat.
2. Divide the salmon into four equal fillets, ensuring there are no pin bones.
3. Drizzle both the flesh side and skin side of the salmon fillets with olive oil.
4. Season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
5. Arrange the salmon fillets skin side down on the hot grill grates.
6. Cover the grill and cook for about 6 minutes, or until the skin releases easily from the grates.
7. Carefully flip the fillets and continue grilling for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
8. Remove the salmon from the heat when the flesh has lightened in color and feels firmer to the touch.
9. Let the fillets rest for about 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute.

Serving:

• Arrange the salmon fillets on a serving platter, skin side down.
• Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges.
• Serve the salmon with a generous dollop of the shallot dill sauce on the side.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Grilled Salmon

• Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is hot enough to give the salmon a good sear without sticking. If the salmon sticks, it’s not ready to flip!
• Sauce Prep: Prepare the shallot dill sauce ahead of time to let the flavors develop. It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
• Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step! It helps the salmon stay juicy and allows the flavors to settle.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of the asparagus complements the salmon perfectly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes with a hint of garlic provide a comforting balance to the dish.
• Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay makes an excellent pairing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 359
• Total Fat: 18.9g (24% DV)
• Cholesterol: 100.3mg (33% DV)
• Sodium: 1372.6mg (60% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 9.2g (3% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1.9g (7% DV)
• Sugars: 1.8g
• Protein: 41.5g (83% DV)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

• Yes, but fresh dill really elevates the flavor. If using dried, reduce the amount to ½ teaspoon.

What if I don’t have a grill?

• You can pan-sear the salmon in a hot skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

• The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. A good rule of thumb is to cook salmon about 8-10 minutes per inch of thickness.

More Relevant Recipes

• Homemade Apple Pie: A Slice of Comfort: A classic dessert that’s perfect to follow your savory salmon meal.
• The Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Chewy and sweet, these cookies are a great treat after dinner.
• Irresistible Chocolate Molten Lava Cakes: For a more decadent dessert, these molten lava cakes are simply divine.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try this Grilled Salmon with Shallot Dill Sauce. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out! And if you loved this recipe, stay tuned for more delicious grilling ideas coming your way. Happy cooking!

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