This elegant salmon dish is bursting with Mediterranean freshness — zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, creamy sauce, and a crunchy golden topping. It’s ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated weekend meal.

🧂 Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each, skin on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

For the Creamy Lemon-Dill Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Crispy Topping:

  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
  • Pinch of lemon zest

🥣 Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Marinade

  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
  • Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush the marinade over both sides.
  • Let the salmon sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare the sauce.

2. Make the Creamy Lemon-Dill Sauce

  • In a small saucepan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  • Pour in the heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
  • Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Add Parmesan cheese if desired, then set aside and keep warm.

3. Cook the Salmon

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Heat an oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat.
  • Add a drizzle of olive oil, then sear the salmon skin-side up for 2–3 minutes, until golden.
  • Flip carefully and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
  • Spoon a little of the lemon-dill sauce over the salmon, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
  • Bake for 6–8 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

4. Prepare the Crispy Topping

  • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, olive oil, Parmesan, parsley, and lemon zest.
  • Toast lightly in a dry pan over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, until golden and fragrant.

5. Assemble and Serve

  • Place each salmon fillet on a plate.
  • Spoon generous amounts of lemon-dill sauce over the top.
  • Sprinkle the crispy breadcrumb topping for crunch and garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
  • Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

🍋 Serving Suggestions

Pair your Mediterranean Lemon-Dill Salmon with:

  • Grilled or roasted vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, carrots)
  • Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta
  • Herb couscous, quinoa, or orzo pasta
  • A glass of chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

🌿 Mediterranean Chef’s Tips

  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.
  • Add a handful of capers to the sauce for a briny, coastal twist.
  • You can also grill the salmon for a smoky Mediterranean flavor.