Easy Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas Recipe
If you’re craving a dinner recipe that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to prepare, you’ve got to try this Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas. This dish brings together juicy, tender salmon cooked in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce, paired with sweet and delicately herbed dill peas. It’s the perfect balance of bright, fresh flavors and comforting richness, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, looks beautiful on the plate, and comes together faster than you might think!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings without compromising on taste.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while peas add fiber and a pop of vibrant color.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The tangy lemon butter complements the natural sweetness of the salmon and peas beautifully.
- Impressive Presentation: This dish looks elegant and restaurant-quality with minimal effort.
- Family-Friendly: Mild flavors make it suitable for all ages, including picky eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas, you’ll use simple, fresh ingredients that each play a key role in the dish. The quality and balance of these ingredients ensure a bright, delicious, and well-rounded meal.
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Opt for skin-on for crispy edges and extra flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to coat the salmon and peas perfectly.
- Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Brings bright acidity and aroma to the dish.
- Fresh Dill: Delivers a subtle, herbal note that pairs beautifully with peas and fish.
- Frozen or Fresh Green Peas: Sweet and tender, providing color, texture, and nutrition.
- Garlic Cloves: For warmth and depth of flavor in the butter sauce.
- Olive Oil: Used for cooking the salmon to a perfect sear.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Variations for Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas
This Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to customize it based on your pantry, dietary preferences, or cravings. Here are some fun twists to try on your next go!
- Swap the Dill: Use fresh parsley or tarragon for a different herbal profile.
- Add Spice: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika into the butter sauce for heat.
- Make it Keto-Friendly: Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted veggies instead of peas.
- Change the Fish: Try this technique with trout or cod for a similar effect.
- Incorporate Creaminess: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the peas for a richer side.
How to Make Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and seasoning both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Mince the garlic and finely chop the fresh dill. If using frozen peas, rinse them under warm water to thaw quickly and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to crisp up. Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, add the butter to the same pan, and let it melt. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add fresh lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine all those vibrant flavors into a glossy, aromatic sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Dill Peas
In a separate small saucepan, heat a teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Add the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender and heated through. Stir in chopped dill, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the salmon to the pan with the lemon butter sauce for a quick toss, spooning the sauce over the fillets to coat them well. Serve the salmon alongside the dill peas, spooning a bit of extra sauce on top for the perfect finishing touch.
Pro Tips for Making Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas
- Use Room Temperature Salmon: Let your fillets sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to promote even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook salmon in batches if necessary to get a crispy sear.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh dill for the best flavor—dried doesn’t compare here.
- Watch the Garlic: Sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness in the butter sauce.
- Skin-On is Best: It locks in moisture and crisps up beautifully, adding texture.
How to Serve Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas
Garnishes
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped dill and lemon zest for visual brightness. A few lemon wedges on the side are perfect for folks who like an extra citrus kick. A light dusting of cracked black pepper adds a touch of rustic charm.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides like steamed asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, serve over wild rice or quinoa to soak up the luscious lemon butter sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salmon on a white or light-colored plate with peas artfully spooned alongside. Arrange the dill peas in a neat mound and drizzle the lemon butter sauce in a zigzag pattern around the plate. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can also elevate the look for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas in an airtight container and refrigerate. For best taste, try to enjoy within 2 days, as salmon can lose its moisture and the peas may become mushy over time.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon, but peas tend to lose texture after freezing. Wrap leftover salmon tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. Consume within 1-2 months for optimal quality.
Reheating
Reheat salmon gently in a low oven (around 275°F) covered with foil to retain moisture. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent drying out. Warm peas quickly on the stovetop or in the microwave just until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and sear.
What if I don’t have fresh dill on hand?
If fresh dill isn’t available, fresh parsley is a decent substitute though the flavor will be milder. Avoid dried dill as it lacks the brightness needed in this dish.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque, coral color throughout. Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F for medium-rare to medium doneness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and it will still taste fantastic with similar richness.
Are dill peas just peas with dill, or is it a special kind of pea?
Dill peas are simply green peas cooked and tossed with fresh dill, giving them a fragrant and slightly tangy herbal twist. It’s an easy way to elevate ordinary peas.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill Peas recipe is like inviting a splash of sunshine into your dinner routine. It’s a straightforward, healthy, and downright delicious meal that comes together quickly but feels special enough for guests or a cozy dinner at home. Give it a go and enjoy every buttery, lemony bite with those fresh, herby peas – I promise it will become one of your favorite dishes to make on repeat!
