Delightful Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad

When the sun shines, and the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a plate of Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad. Imagine juicy salmon fillets grilled to perfection, kissed by zesty lemon and aromatic dill, served alongside a refreshing cucumber salad that crunches with every bite. The moment you whip this dish up, your kitchen transforms into a sunny seaside bistro, no ocean required.

I remember the first time I prepared this dish for my family. It was one of those rare occasions when everyone could gather around the table, and as soon as I served it, the room filled with cheerful exclamations. My mom even declared it “the best salmon she’d ever tasted.” Moments like these make cooking worthwhile, don’t you think? This delightful dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.

One memorable summer evening, I decided to impress my friends with this recipe. They were skeptical about salmon (because who isn’t?), but their faces lit up after the first bite!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh fillets with bright color and minimal smell; wild-caught is usually tastier.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds a zing that bottled versions just can’t match.

• Dill: Fresh dill gives an aromatic lift; dried dill works in a pinch but lacks that vibrant flavor.

• Cucumbers: Use crisp English cucumbers for their sweetness and crunch; they don’t need peeling.

• Red Onion: A thin slice adds a gentle bite; soak it in cold water if you’re sensitive to sharp flavors.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin gives depth and richness; drizzle generously over everything for added flavor.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; use sea salt for texture and freshly cracked pepper for heat.

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

How to Make Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside to let flavors marry.

Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let sit for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the salad.

Make the Cucumber Salad: In another bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss gently to mix.

Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). If using a grill pan indoors, let it get hot too.

Grill the Salmon: Place marinated salmon on the grill skin-side down. Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky.

Serve & Enjoy!: Plate the grilled salmon alongside cucumber salad. Garnish with extra dill or lemon wedges if desired. Dig in while it’s hot!

Cooking can be an adventure filled with unexpected surprises; this recipe is no exception! Enjoy every step along the way!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the salmon for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors. Preheat your grill while preparing the cucumber salad, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the salmon for another fish like trout or use different herbs such as basil or cilantro. A sprinkle of feta cheese on the cucumber salad can elevate the flavor even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on low heat in a skillet, avoiding overcooking.

Creating this dish reminds me of my first summer barbecue where everyone raved about my grilled salmon! It was such a hit that I felt like a culinary rockstar.

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and grilling.

What herbs can I substitute for dill?

Basil or parsley can work as excellent alternatives if you’re not a fan of dill.

How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

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Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad

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Lemon Dill Grilled Salmon with Cucumber Salad is a vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings. The succulent salmon, marinated in zesty lemon and fresh dill, is grilled to perfection and paired with a refreshing cucumber salad that adds a satisfying crunch. This recipe not only delights the palate but also transforms any meal into a gourmet experience. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests, it’s the ideal choice for those looking to savor the flavors of summer.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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 the marinade over them; let sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. In another bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil; toss gently.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
5. Grill marinated salmon skin-side down for 5-6 minutes per side until flaky and cooked through.
6. Serve alongside cucumber salad; garnish with extra dill or lemon wedges if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Swap salmon for trout or use basil/cilantro instead of dill for variations. Add crumbled feta cheese to the cucumber salad for an extra flavor boost. Ensure your grill grates are well-oiled before grilling to prevent sticking.