Lemon-Dill Salmon Berry Bowl

Name: Lemon-Dill Salmon Berry Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped

Highlighted under: Home Cooking

I absolutely love creating fresh and vibrant meals, and this Lemon-Dill Salmon Berry Bowl is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of tender, flaky salmon with bright, zesty lemon and fresh dill pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of mixed berries. It's an ideal dish for a refreshing lunch or light dinner that never fails to impress. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Trust me, the flavors meld together beautifully for a dish that looks as good as it tastes!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-08T14:50:28.102Z

When I first made this Lemon-Dill Salmon Berry Bowl, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together while still being packed with flavor. The key to creating a robust and refreshing taste is marinating the salmon in lemon juice and dill, which not only enhances its flavor but also keeps it moist during cooking. I like to grill the salmon, but baking works perfectly too – just keep an eye on it!

One detail I discovered is that adding a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving really elevates the dish. The crunch of the salt complements the soft salmon and the juicy berries wonderfully. Try it with your favorite seasonal berries for a personalized touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Refreshing blend of citrus and dill enhancing the salmon
Juicy and sweet berries that add a delightful contrast
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Elevating Flavor with Marinades

Marinating salmon is a crucial step in building flavor, and this recipe's marinade, made from olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill, is particularly effective. Allowing the salmon to sit in the marinade for 15 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the fish, enhancing its natural taste. The acidity from the lemon not only adds brightness but also helps to tenderize the salmon, making it flakier when cooked. If you’re short on time, you can reduce the marinating time to 5-10 minutes, but keep an eye on flavor absorption.

For an added flavor twist, consider incorporating other herbs into the marinade, such as parsley or tarragon. These can lend a different aromatic profile that complements the lemon and dill beautifully. Additionally, for those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can be added, providing a subtle kick without overpowering the main ingredients.

Creating a Balanced Berry Salad

The berry salad is as crucial as the salmon in this dish, bringing both sweetness and acidity to balance out the meal. When selecting berries, opt for ripe, seasonal fruits for the best flavor. Not only do they provide natural sweetness, but they also add a variety of colors that enhance the visual appeal of the dish. If you can’t find fresh berries, frozen berries can be a suitable substitute—just ensure to thaw and drain them well before mixing to avoid excess liquid in the bowl.

The honey and lemon dressing not only serves as a flavor enhancer but also helps to lightly macerate the berries, releasing their juices and creating a natural syrup. If you're looking to reduce sugar, agave or maple syrup can also work well in place of honey, keeping the dressing both flavorful and allergen-friendly. Just remember to taste-test to find the right level of sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to create this delightful meal:

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Berry Salad:

2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped

Combine these ingredients for a colorful and nutritious bowl!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon-Dill Salmon Berry Bowl:

Marinate the Salmon

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Place salmon fillets in a dish and cover with the marinade, letting them sit for about 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat your grill or oven. Grill each salmon fillet for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Prepare the Berry Salad

In a bowl, combine mixed berries, honey, lemon juice, and chopped mint. Gently mix to coat the berries without bruising them.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, place the cooked salmon on one side and the berry salad on the other. Drizzle extra lemon juice if desired before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Lemon-Dill Salmon Berry Bowl!

Pro Tips

Use seasonal berries for the best flavor and variety. For added crunch, consider topping the bowl with some toasted nuts or seeds.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Lemon-Dill Salmon Berry Bowl more filling, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. This addition not only increases the dish's nutritional value but also provides a satisfying texture that complements the flaky salmon and juicy berries. If you want to keep it lighter, a bed of mixed greens or arugula can add a fresh crunch, making the bowl even more refreshing.

To give your bowl an extra touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese on top. The creaminess of the cheese contrasts wonderfully with the zest of the lemon and the sweetness of the berries. For a nutty flavor, consider adding a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts for added texture and protein.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers from this dish, they can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, I recommend keeping the salmon and berry salad separate to maintain the best texture. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the salmon in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side or until warmed through, while avoiding overcooking to preserve its flakiness.

The berry salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you're looking to prepare it in advance, consider only mixing the berries with the dressing just before serving. This helps to keep the berries intact and vibrant, preventing them from becoming mushy. If the salad does sit for a while, it may release some juice, which could be used as a natural syrup drizzled over the salmon upon serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ Is it possible to make this bowl ahead of time?

You can prepare and marinate the salmon ahead, but it's best to assemble the bowl just before serving for freshness.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add avocado slices or mixed greens for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Can I substitute the berries?

Absolutely! Any fresh fruit like peaches or apples can work wonderfully in this recipe.