Roasted Salmon With Dill Lemon Sauce

I think most people will agree that salmon is probably the most versatile fish.  A lot of people who do not like fish will eat salmon.  It is the most common fish found on restaurant menus. It is not “fishy,” has a substantial texture and a rich taste.  It is also a great canvas for any sauce or marinade.

The great thing about this recipe is that it can be easily made for 2 or 20.  This is a dish I often make just for my husband and myself.  I have also, on more than one occasion, made this for a large crowd.  I made it for my sister’s engagement party and it was a hit!  When making this for a party I roast a whole side of salmon and double the sauce recipe.  It is impressive looking and tastes delicious and is really easy!

Some people like to keep the skin on their salmon. If you prefer to keep the skin then go ahead and leave it on.  I personally do not like it so I ask my fish monger to remove it for me after it has been weighed.

This sauce is great on salmon, but also terrific on any other type of fish.  It is also really good over salad greens and as a dip for veggies.  It is a nice recipe to keep in your back pocket 🙂

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Cook Time:  15 to 20 Minutes

Yield: 3 to 4 servings

1 ½ to 2 pounds center cut salmon

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large lemon, ½ sliced and ½ zested ( about 1 teaspoon zest)

Juice of 1 lemon

8 oz reduced fat sour cream

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

1 clove finely minced garlic (optional)

2 tablespoons milk (whatever kind you have at home)

2 tablespoons reduced fat mayonnaise

Kosher salt

Ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F

Place the salmon in a baking dish. It is helpful to first spray the dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. In a separate bowl mix the olive oil, juice of half a lemon and minced garlic. Brush onto the salmon and sprinkle with salt and fresh cracked pepper. Place lemon slices on top of the fish.

Cook the salmon on the middle oven rack until just cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on thickness.  You may need to increase the time if cooking a larger piece of fish.

While the fish is cooking prepare the sauce.  Place the lemon zest in a bowl and stir in the sour cream, milk, juice of half a lemon, mayonnaise, dill, salt and pepper.  Mix until you have a sauce like consistency.  If the sauce is too thick you can thin it out with more milk.

Serve with lemon slices and sauce.

Suggested Pampered Chef Tools:

• ·         Citrus Press or Lemon juicer
• ·         Garlic Press
• ·         Silicone basting brush
• ·         Entertaining platter