Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce

A delightful pairing of salmon and refreshing lemon-dill sauce, designed to complement a sparkling rosé.

A sparkling rosé pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, especially those that balance richness with freshness. One great pairing is Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce. The rich salmon and bright lemon-dill sauce complement the bubbly, fruity flavors of sparkling rosé perfectly.

Tips and Tricks

• Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon fillets for a more vibrant flavor, or sustainably farmed salmon if wild-caught isn’t available.
• Season Generously: Ensure your fillets are well-seasoned with salt and pepper before cooking to bring out the natural flavors of the fish.
• Watch the Heat: Cook the salmon over medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear without overcooking the interior.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: Prepare the lemon-dill sauce in advance to allow the flavors to meld and save time during dinner prep.

Variations

• Grilled Salmon: For a smoky flavor, grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it. Brush with olive oil and season well before grilling.
• Herb Swap: Replace dill with fresh tarragon or chives for a different yet equally refreshing herbal taste.
• Yogurt-Free Sauce: For those avoiding dairy, substitute the yogurt with an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or an avocado-based dressing.
• Citrus Zing: Add finely grated lemon zest or even a dash of orange zest to the sauce for a tangy twist.

Chef’s Notes

• Pairing the Dish: Sparkling rosé is an excellent match for salmon due to its light, fruity flavors and effervescence. The acidity cuts through the fish’s richness and refreshes the palate.
• Balancing Flavors: Ensure the sauce has a good balance of creaminess, acidity, and herbs. A touch more lemon juice can bring out the best in the dill, while a hint of honey can add depth.
• Seasonal Sides: This dish pairs well with light, seasonal sides like asparagus, couscous, or roasted summer vegetables for a complete meal.

Let’s Make It! -Recipe

Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce

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Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce
   • In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, and minced garlic.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Cover and chill in the refrigerator while you cook the salmon.
2. Cook the Salmon
   • Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry and season them with salt and pepper.
   • Place the fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable.
   • Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Serve
   • Place the cooked salmon on a serving plate and spoon a generous amount of the lemon-dill sauce on top.
   • Garnish with extra fresh dill or lemon slices if desired.
   • Pair with your favorite side, like a green salad or roasted vegetables, and enjoy alongside a glass of sparkling rosé. (Grilling instructions below)

Grilling Instructions for Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce

1. Prepare the Grill
   • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
   • Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Salmon
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
   • Rub the fillets with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the Salmon
   • Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill.
   • Grill for about 4-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
   • Carefully flip the fillets and continue grilling for another 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve
   • Remove the salmon from the grill and transfer to a serving plate.
   • Spoon the chilled lemon-dill sauce over the grilled fillets.
   • Garnish with fresh dill and lemon slices, and serve with your desired sides.

Tips

• Use a Fish Spatula: A thin fish spatula will help flip the fillets without breaking them.
• Direct vs. Indirect Heat: For thicker fillets, sear directly over the heat for a few minutes, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking.
• Grill Basket or Foil: If your grill grates tend to stick, use a grill basket or a foil packet to prevent the fish from breaking apart.

Our Perfect Pairing

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