Introduction

Lemon Dill Salmon with Rice is a light, refreshing, and flavorful meal that combines tender, flaky salmon with bright lemon and fragrant dill. Served alongside perfectly cooked rice, this dish is both healthy and satisfying. The tangy lemon and aromatic dill enhance the natural richness of the salmon, creating a balanced, restaurant-quality dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for special occasions.

This recipe is ideal for anyone seeking a nutritious, omega-3-packed meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, simple, and comforting. The lemon and dill perfectly complement the salmon without overpowering its natural flavor, while the rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the delicious juices. It’s a dish that feels light yet satisfying — perfect for a healthy dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. The bright, aromatic flavors make it feel indulgent while remaining wholesome.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Bright and fresh flavors: Lemon and dill perfectly enhance the salmon.
Healthy and nutritious: Rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining.
Simple ingredients: Minimal pantry staples, maximum flavor.

If you love light, flavorful, and nutritious meals, this Lemon Dill Salmon with Rice is a must-try.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving

Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-inspired

Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on or skinless
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1–2 tsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
2 garlic cloves, minced

For the Rice:

1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
2 cups water or low-sodium broth
½ tsp salt
1 tsp butter or olive oil (optional)

Optional Garnish:

Lemon slices
Extra fresh dill

Simple Cooking Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season salmon with salt, pepper, lemon juice, zest, dill, and garlic.
Cook rice according to package instructions.
Bake or pan-sear salmon until cooked through.
Serve salmon over rice, garnished with fresh lemon and dill.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water.
In a medium saucepan, combine rice, 2 cups water (or broth), and salt.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork and stir in butter or olive oil if desired.

Step 2: Preheat Oven or Pan

Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
Stovetop method: Heat olive oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dill. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Oven Method:

Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if using skin.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Stovetop Method:

Place salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down if using skin.
Cook 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook 3–5 minutes until salmon is cooked through.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Place a portion of rice on each plate. Top with a salmon fillet. Drizzle with any pan juices and garnish with lemon slices and extra dill.

How to Serve

Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Drizzle with extra lemon juice or a light yogurt-dill sauce for added flavor.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use fresh dill for the best flavor; dried dill works in a pinch.
Pat salmon dry before cooking to help it sear nicely.
Avoid overcooking salmon — it should be slightly pink in the center.
For extra flavor, marinate salmon in lemon, dill, and garlic for 15–20 minutes before cooking.

Recipe Variations

Garlic Butter Salmon: Add melted butter and extra garlic for a richer flavor.
Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the rice.
Spicy Lemon Dill Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
Herb Rice Variation: Cook rice with parsley, chives, or basil for extra freshness.
Sheet Pan Meal: Roast salmon and vegetables together for a one-pan dinner.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Refrigerate cooked salmon and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze salmon alone for up to 2 months. Rice can be frozen separately for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat salmon gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes. Reheat rice in a microwave with a splash of water.

Special Equipment Needed

Baking sheet or skillet
Medium saucepan for rice
Knife and cutting board
Fork for fluffing rice

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking for best results.

Q2: Can I cook the rice in a rice cooker?
Absolutely! Follow your rice cooker’s instructions.

Q3: Can I use salmon with skin?
Yes, the skin helps protect the salmon and adds flavor.

Q4: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q5: Can I bake salmon and rice together?
You can bake salmon and vegetables together, but cook rice separately to ensure proper texture.

Conclusion

Lemon Dill Salmon with Rice is a light, fresh, and nutritious meal that combines tender salmon, aromatic dill, and bright lemon with perfectly cooked rice. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a healthy, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that works for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Its balance of flavors, simplicity, and elegance make it a must-try recipe for salmon lovers seeking a wholesome, satisfying meal.