Grilled salmon with lemon dill butter

Grilled salmon with lemon dill butter combines fresh salmon, zesty lemon, and fragrant dill in a flavorful dish that's easy to prepare. Perfect for quick dinners or elegant occasions, this recipe features grilled salmon topped with a buttery sauce.

29 Nov 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

24 oz salmon
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 lemon
2 tsp dill
1/4 cup butter
1 dash salt

Grilled salmon with lemon dill butter is a delicious and healthy meal that is simple to prepare. The combination of fresh salmon, zesty lemon, fragrant dill, and creamy butter creates a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lemon Dill Butter:
- Grate the zest of the lemon and then cut the lemon in half.
- Juice half of the lemon and set aside the juice.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice (about 1-2 teaspoons to taste), and dill. Mix well until fully integrated.
- Season the butter mixture with a dash of salt and, if desired, add a bit of freshly ground black pepper.
- Set the butter mixture aside or refrigerate if preparing in advance.

2. Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are ashed over and spread out in an even layer.

3. Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the fillets lightly with salt and pepper if using.

4. Grill the Salmon:
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill.
- Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes on the first side, without moving them, to allow for nice grill marks and to prevent sticking.
- Flip the salmon gently using a wide spatula and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

5. Serve:
- Remove the salmon from the grill and allow it to rest for a minute or two.
- Top each salmon fillet with a generous dollop of the lemon dill butter while it is still hot, allowing the butter to melt over the fish.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges from the remaining half of the lemon, if desired.

Enjoy the succulent and flavorful grilled salmon topped with the delightful lemon dill butter. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it's also packed with nutrients, making it a win-win for both your taste buds and your health.

Grilled salmon with lemon dill butter FAQ:

How long should I grill the salmon?

Grill the salmon fillets for 4-5 minutes on the first side, then flip and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes. The total cooking time is approximately 7-9 minutes.

What should the internal temperature of the salmon be when it's done?

The salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should also flake easily with a fork.

How can I store leftover grilled salmon?

Leftover grilled salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, consider using the oven or a microwave to maintain moisture.

Can I substitute fresh dill with dried dill in this recipe?

Yes, you can use dried dill as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh dill, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

What type of grill works best for this recipe?

Both gas and charcoal grills work well for grilling salmon. Preheat to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C) for optimal cooking results.

Tips:

- Make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat before cooking the salmon to ensure even cooking.

- Brush the salmon fillets with vegetable oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill grates.

- Use a fish spatula to carefully flip the salmon fillets, as it helps to maintain their shape and prevent them from breaking apart.

- After grilling, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before adding the lemon dill butter. This allows the juices to redistribute within the fish.

- Feel free to add more seasoning to taste, such as black pepper or garlic powder, to customize the flavor to your liking.

- Use fresh dill and lemon juice for the best flavor in the lemon dill butter. Dried dill can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will give a more vibrant taste.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 330kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 2.52g
Fiber 0.76g
Sugar 0.76g
Fat 27g

Grilled salmon with lemon dill butter