Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon-Dill Rice

Quick salmon dinner? This pan-seared salmon and rice recipe is ready in 35! Crispy skin, lemon-dill rice...it's a flavour bomb! Get the easy recipe now. ... Quick - Easy
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a salmon dinner that's both posh and proper easy? ever wonder how to get that crispy skin on your oven salmon every single time? this salmon and rice recipe is your new best mate in the kitchen.
It's seriously banging.
Brief Overview
This pan-seared salmon recipe with lemon-dill rice is proper comfort food. it hails from the school of quick, delicious, and healthy eats.
This is definitely not your nan’s soggy fish dish! ready in about 35 minutes, it serves two hungry souls.
Main Benefits
This dish is packed with omega-3s. it’s perfect for a midweek meal when you're feeling a bit "meh". what makes this recipe special? honestly, the crispy salmon skin against the lemony rice is just sublime.
Plus, it's one of those easy salmon recipes that makes you look like a proper chef, even if you’re just winging it.
Let's get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we?
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon-Dill Rice Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Let's Talk Ingredients
Salmon Selection
For this salmon and rice recipe , you'll need two gorgeous salmon fillets. about 6 ounces each is spot on.
Skin on is a must for that amazing crisp. get rid of any sneaky pin bones though; nobody wants a surprise crunch.
Rice is Right
Now, for the lemon dill salmon and rice , you'll need one cup of long-grain rice. basmati or jasmine works a treat.
A small onion is key too – finely chopped, mind you. the dill? fresh is always best, about a quarter cup should do it.
Don't forget the lemon! we need zest and juice for that zing.
The Extras that Elevate
Got olive oil? good, we'll need a couple of tablespoons. some chicken broth (or veg if you're that way inclined) will give the rice some proper flavour.
And of course, salt and pepper to season like a pro.
Alright, let's get cooking. are you ready to cook up the healthy salmon and rice recipe of your dreams? trust me; this will be your new salmon rice bowl favourite! this is perfect to use your one-pan salmon and rice , less washing up time.
Alright, let's chat about what you'll need to make this amazing salmon and rice recipe . It's easier than you think! Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can.

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Shopping List Sorted
Okay, so Easy Salmon Recipes that are quick and delicious? That's what we are aiming for here! Let's break down the list, bit by bit. Don't worry, it's not scary.
Main Ingredients Breakdown
Salmon: you'll need two 6-ounce (170g) salmon fillets. skin on is best! why? crispy skin! for the best oven salmon , look for fillets that are bright in color.
They should also feel firm, not mushy. nobody wants mushy fish.
Olive Oil: Just 1 tablespoon for the Salmon Dinner . And another 1 tablespoon for the rice. Get the good stuff!
Salt & Pepper: Half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of pepper for the salmon. Season to taste for the rice. You know how you like it.
Rice: You will need 1 cup (180g) of long-grain rice. Rinse it first! It helps get rid of the extra starch.
Chicken Broth: Two cups (475ml) of this. Veggie broth works too! I have use both, and both are great!.
Dill: You need a quarter cup (10g) of fresh dill. Smells divine, right?
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice is needed.
Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for that extra zing !
Onion: One small onion chopped finely. About half a cup (60g) .
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Power
Let's talk about flavour! lemon and dill are a match made in heaven for salmon and rice bowl . it's simple, but works so well! need to swap things? use parsley instead of dill.
It's not quite the same, but will do the trick in a pinch. red pepper flakes give a bit of kick, so add some if you are feeling brave.
Equipment Needed: Simple Tools
Don't stress about fancy gadgets!
- Large non-stick skillet : For searing that salmon to crispy perfection.
- Medium saucepan with a lid : For cooking your rice.
- Cutting board & Chef's knife : For chopping the onion and herbs.
- Microplane (optional) : For getting that lemon zest just right.
If you don’t have a microplane, no problem! a grater works just fine. you can use a regular pan too, if you don't have non stick, but make sure to use enough oil so the salmon does not stick to the pan.
With these bits and bobs you are all set to nail a pan-seared salmon recipe .
Getting this healthy salmon and rice recipe on the table does not have to be a slog, honestly!
Cooking Method: Perfectly Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon-Dill Rice
Okay, let’s dive into my favourite salmon and rice recipe . i love it because it's easy, quick, and makes me feel like a proper chef.
Honestly, who doesn’t want easy and delicious ?
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First, get your stuff together. this is called “mise en place,” fancy french for “everything in its place.” chop your onion.
Measure your rice. get your salmon ready. this essential mise en place will save you a headache later. i swear!
Time saving tips? rinse your rice beforehand . it helps to remove excess starch. this prevents a sticky rice situation! also, make sure your salmon fillets are roughly the same size.
This ensures even cooking. you know?
Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step
- Sauté the onion in olive oil until soft. About 3- 5 minutes .
- Add rice and toast briefly. Stir until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 18- 20 minutes . Cover it!
- While rice cooks, pat salmon dry. Season with salt and pepper. This is key for crispy skin!
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. I love hearing that sizzle!
- Place salmon skin-side down. Cook for 6- 8 minutes until crispy.
- Flip and cook for 2- 4 minutes more. Internal temp should be 145° F/ 63° C .
- Fluff rice with dill, lemon juice, and zest. Serve with salmon . Boom! Dinner is served.
Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen
Want crispy salmon ? Dry the skin. Seriously. Pat, pat, pat. It’s a game changer. Also, don't be scared of the heat. Medium-high is your friend.
Common mistake? Overcooking the salmon . It happens. That is why I recommend using a thermometer! Undercooked salmon is better than dry salmon.
Making this ahead? you can prep the rice. cook the rice ahead and then add the lemon juice and zest when you are ready to serve.
I suggest that you bake salmon recipes for a great next-day salmon dinner . the oven salmon is also great if you are on the go.
This salmon and rice recipe is a winner, especially when i am wanting to create a quick salmon rice bowl ! plus, it works great as a healthy salmon and rice recipe , and you can easily make it a salmon and rice bowl with vegetables ! so, go on, give it a bash! you might even find a new go-to easy salmon recipe.
Recipe Notes: The Secret Sauce to Salmon Success
Okay, so you've got the salmon and rice recipe . now, let's talk about making it amazing . these are my little secrets, the things that take this easy salmon recipes up a notch.
Honestly, it's all about the little details.
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Presentation matters, right? think of your plate as a canvas. don't just dump the salmon dinner on there. a little bit of care goes a long way.
I like to spoon the lemon-dill rice into a nice mound. then, i artfully arrange the oven salmon on top.
A sprig of fresh dill? yes, please!
Consider a bright green side dish. steamed asparagus or green beans are fantastic. they add color and freshness. a simple green salad is lovely.
And, you know what? even a little squeeze of sriracha mayo on the salmon is divine. try making it a salmon rice bowl !.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
Got leftovers? no worries! this healthy salmon and rice recipe can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Just pop it in an airtight container. freezing isn't ideal for the rice, but the baked salmon recipes freezes well.
Wrap each fillet individually. then, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating is easy. you can microwave it, but honestly, it's better in a pan. a quick sauté keeps the salmon moist.
And for the rice? a splash of water helps it steam back to life.
Variations: Your Salmon, Your Way
Don't be afraid to experiment! feeling spicy? a pinch of red pepper flakes on the salmon is excellent. want something sweeter? try brushing the pan-seared salmon recipe with maple syrup during the last minute of cooking.
Oh my gosh, it's heavenly!
Got dietary needs? easy peasy. use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. swap out the rice for quinoa for a gluten-free option.
You could make a one-pan salmon and rice dish. it's adaptable.
Nutrition Basics: Good Food, Good Mood
This lemon dill salmon and rice is more than just tasty. it's good for you too! salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
These are amazing for your heart and brain. the rice provides energy, and the dill and lemon? well, they're full of vitamins.
We love to eat salmon and rice bowl with vegetables .
Each serving clocks in around 650 calories, with a whopping 45g of protein. Not bad, eh? It's a balanced and satisfying meal. It'll leave you feeling good from the inside out.
Give this salmon and rice recipe a try. Honestly, I think you'll love it!

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my salmon skin gets super crispy in this salmon and rice recipe?
Crispy salmon skin is the holy grail! The key is to ensure the skin is bone-dry before it hits the pan. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels as if you were blotting away a royal tear. Also, start with a hot pan and don't move the salmon around while it's searing, let that lovely crust develop!
Can I use a different type of rice for this salmon and rice recipe?
Absolutely! While long-grain rice works beautifully with the lemon-dill flavors, feel free to experiment. Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and more fiber – just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions. You could even try jasmine rice for a floral aroma, like serving up a bouquet with your dinner.
My salmon always ends up dry. How do I avoid overcooking it in this salmon and rice recipe?
Overcooked salmon is a culinary tragedy. Salmon cooks fast, so keep a close eye on it. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can also gently flake it with a fork to check for doneness; it should be opaque and moist. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat, a bit like letting tea steep properly.
What are some good variations I can try with this salmon and rice recipe?
Get creative! For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salmon seasoning. If you are feeling adventurous, try swapping the chicken broth for coconut milk to make coconut rice, giving the dish a lovely tropical twist. A maple glaze brushed on the salmon in the last minute of cooking adds a touch of sweetness, creating a balanced flavour profile.
How should I store leftovers of this salmon and rice recipe?
Store any leftover salmon and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 2-3 days. When reheating, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave; a splash of water can help prevent the rice from drying out. Reheating will change the texture of the salmon, but it's still perfectly safe and tasty!
Is this salmon and rice recipe healthy?
You bet! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain. The lemon and dill add freshness and flavour without extra salt or fat. Plus, you can boost the nutritional value further by serving it with a side of steamed greens, like asparagus or broccoli. It's a delicious way to get your vitamins, a bit like a healthy hug in a bowl.