Ingredients
Salmon and Marinade
- 4 salmon filets (about 6 ounces/170g each)
- ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Herb Crust
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
Lemon Dill Sour Cream Sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate salmon: Place the salmon filets in a large glass container or baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or tamari), minced garlic, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Pour this marinade over the salmon, ensuring both sides are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
- Make lemon dill sour cream sauce: While the salmon marinates, prepare the sauce by whisking together sour cream, finely chopped fresh dill, lemon zest and juice, finely chopped shallot, prepared horseradish, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve.
- Press herb mixture on salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and gently pat dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine dried thyme, dried parsley, dried basil, and coarsely ground black pepper. Sprinkle this herb mixture evenly over the top of each salmon filet, gently pressing it in so it adheres well.
- Pan sear salmon: Heat avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Reduce the heat to medium and place the salmon filets herb crust side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the herb crust is golden but not burnt. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F to 140°F and the fish is cooked through. Transfer the salmon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Plate the salmon filets and add a generous dollop of the lemon dill sour cream sauce on top or serve it on the side. Enjoy this flavorful and elegant dish immediately.
Notes
- Marinating time can be extended up to 1 hour for more intense flavor, but avoid going longer to prevent the fish texture from becoming mushy.
- Use fresh herbs in the sauce for best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary.
- Ensure the skillet is hot but not smoking to get a perfect golden crust without burning the herbs.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check salmon doneness for best results; salmon is safe to eat at 130°F to 140°F.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes as side dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat