Poached Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce

Poached Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that makes for a healthy and delicious meal. When paired with a refreshing cucumber dill sauce, it becomes an irresistible combination perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Poached Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
• 1 cup water
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3-4 sprigs of fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cucumber Dill Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Poaching Liquid

In a large skillet, combine the chicken broth, water, sliced shallot, lemon slices, and fresh dill. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 2: Poach the Salmon

Once the poaching liquid is simmering, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and poach the salmon for about 5 to 7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 3: Make the Cucumber Dill Sauce

While the salmon is poaching, prepare the cucumber dill sauce. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Serve

Once the salmon is cooked, carefully remove it from the skillet using a spatula. Place each fillet on a serving plate and drizzle with cucumber dill sauce. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.

Tips for Success: For Best Poached Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality salmon will enhance the flavors of this dish.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Thicker fillets may require additional cooking time while thinner ones will cook more quickly.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to your poaching liquid for added flavor complexity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your poached salmon alongside:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus make great sides.
• Rice or Quinoa: These grains can help soak up any extra sauce.
• Salad: A light green salad pairs beautifully with this dish.

This recipe for poached salmon with cucumber dill sauce is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful balance of flavors. The creamy yogurt sauce complements the tender salmon perfectly, making it a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this healthy meal as part of your weekly dinner rotation or as a special treat!

FAQ: Poached Salmon with Cucumber Dill Sauce

1. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. It should be opaque and not translucent.

2. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before poaching.

3. What type of salmon is best for poaching?
Wild-caught salmon, such as sockeye or king salmon, is often preferred for its flavor and texture, but farmed salmon works well too.

4. Can I make the cucumber dill sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

5. What can I serve with poached salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It also goes well with crusty bread.

6. Can I use other herbs instead of dill?
Yes! Fresh parsley, chives, or tarragon can be good alternatives, depending on your taste preference.

7. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.

8. Is poached salmon healthy?
Yes! Poached salmon is a healthy cooking method that retains nutrients without added fats. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit any yogurt or sour cream from the cucumber dill sauce, or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.