Crispy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Caper Dill Sauce

There’s something undeniably satisfying about perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy skin paired with a bright, tangy sauce. This Crispy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Caper Dill Sauce brings together the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with the vibrant zestiness of lemon, the briny pop of capers, and the fresh, herbal aroma of dill — all wrapped up in a creamy coconut milk sauce that elevates the dish to something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive plate to serve guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients like avocado oil and dried dill that you likely already have in your pantry.

Why It Deserves a Spot

If you’re craving a seafood dish that’s both elegant and approachable, this Crispy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Caper Dill Sauce is a must-try. The salmon skin crisps up beautifully in the skillet, creating a delightful contrast to the tender flesh beneath. The sauce is creamy yet light, thanks to full-fat canned coconut milk, and the lemon zest and juice bring a fresh brightness that balances the richness. Capers add a touch of briny punch, while the dill ties all the flavors together with its subtle anise-like notes.

What sets this recipe apart is how it marries simple ingredients with a technique that guarantees crispy skin every time. Plus, it’s versatile — serve it over rice, alongside steamed vegetables, or even tossed with pasta. Speaking of pasta, if you love salmon dishes, you might want to check out my Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta or the indulgent Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta, both perfect complements to your seafood repertoire.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 to 2 Tbsp avocado oil – for frying the salmon to crispy perfection
• 1 1/2 pounds salmon, cut into fillets – fresh or thawed, skin on
• 1 tsp ground paprika – adds depth and a subtle smoky flavor
• 2 tsp dried dill – infuses the fish with herbaceous notes
• 1/4 tsp sea salt – enhances the natural flavor of salmon
• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk – for a creamy, dairy-free sauce base
• 2 tsp lemon zest – adds a bright citrus aroma
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice, to taste – for acidity and freshness
• 3 Tbsp capers – brings a salty, tangy bite
• 2 tsp dried dill – to stir into the sauce for extra herb flavor

Setup & Equipment

• Non-stick or cast iron skillet – essential for crisping the salmon skin evenly
• Fish spatula or thin turner – helps flip the salmon without breaking the fillets
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise ingredient amounts
• Small mixing bowl – to whisk together the sauce ingredients
• Knife and cutting board – to prep the salmon and zest the lemon
• Serving plates – for plating your beautifully cooked salmon

The Method for Crispy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Caper Dill Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness. In a small bowl, combine ground paprika, 2 teaspoons dried dill, and sea salt. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each fillet, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet and Oil

Place your skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of avocado oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers but does not smoke. This step is crucial to achieve that coveted crispy skin without sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Carefully lay the salmon fillets skin-side down into the hot skillet. Press them gently with the spatula for about 10 seconds to prevent curling. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes without moving the fillets — this will let the skin crisp up beautifully. Flip the fillets and cook the other side for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through but still moist inside. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Caper Dill Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the full-fat canned coconut milk, lemon zest, lemon juice (start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste), capers, and remaining 2 teaspoons dried dill. The coconut milk provides a luscious, creamy base that complements the zesty lemon and salty capers perfectly.

Step 5: Warm the Sauce

Return the skillet to low heat and pour the sauce mixture in, stirring gently to warm it through. It should be heated but not boiled, to maintain the fresh flavors. Spoon the sauce generously over the salmon fillets.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your crispy salmon fillets and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh dill or lemon slices if you have them on hand. This dish shines when served immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Use wild-caught salmon for a higher omega-3 content and sustainable choice.
• Swap avocado oil with extra virgin olive oil for a heart-healthy fat option.
• Reduce the amount of coconut milk for a lighter sauce or substitute with almond milk, keeping in mind it will be less creamy.
• Fresh dill can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant herbal note and lower sodium content.
• Adjust lemon juice to your preference to reduce acidity if sensitive.

Cook’s Commentary

This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients work together to create something spectacular. The key to the perfect Crispy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Caper Dill Sauce lies in getting that skin crispy without overcooking the flesh. Patience during the cooking phase pays off immensely.

The coconut milk sauce is a delightful twist that replaces heavier cream or butter sauces, providing richness without overpowering the delicate salmon flavor. If you’re a fan of salmon pasta dishes, the flavors here share some common threads with recipes like Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta, which also highlights dill and lemon beautifully.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the capers — their briny burst is a game-changer that many people underestimate. They cut through the creaminess and add a wonderful dimension to every bite.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the lemon caper dill sauce separate if possible to maintain the crispness of the salmon skin when reheating.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 275°F (135°C) wrapped in foil to avoid drying out.
• Do not freeze cooked salmon with the sauce, as the texture and flavor may degrade.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use fresh dill instead of dried dill?

Absolutely! Fresh dill works wonderfully and provides a brighter, more aromatic flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill in place of the dried quantities specified.

How do I ensure the salmon skin gets crispy?

Make sure the salmon skin is very dry before cooking and the skillet is hot enough with enough oil. Press the fillets down gently for the first few seconds in the pan to prevent curling, and avoid moving the fish around as it cooks skin-side down.

Is this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, the sauce is made with full-fat canned coconut milk, making it creamy and dairy-free while still rich and delicious.

Can I make this recipe with frozen salmon?

Yes, but be sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve the crispy skin and even cooking.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta – a bright and creamy pasta that’s perfect for salmon lovers.
• Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta – rich, garlicky, and indulgent, yet simple to prepare.
• Herb Roasted Chicken – a classic roasted chicken with herbs and lemon.
• Creamy Avocado Pasta – a dairy-free, creamy pasta recipe packed with healthy fats.

Final Bite

This Crispy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Caper Dill Sauce is a winning recipe for those who appreciate simple cooking techniques with bold flavors. The crispy skin, creamy tangy sauce, and aromatic herbs make it a standout meal that feels both fresh and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy every time.

Try it alongside your favorite sides or toss it over pasta for a complete meal. The bright notes of lemon and dill keep it feeling light and vibrant, perfect for any season. Enjoy every bite of this delicious salmon dish!

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