If you’re craving a dish that is vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor, the Grilled Salmon Skewers with Creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner to keep in your culinary repertoire. These tender salmon cubes, kissed by smoky grill marks and complemented by a luscious, tangy dill-infused yogurt sauce, come together so effortlessly you’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner. Perfect for a sunny weekend barbecue or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe balances healthy fats, bright herbs, and subtle spices in a way that keeps every bite exciting and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony to create a fresh and flavorful experience. Each element plays a key role—whether it’s the rich salmon, aromatic dill, or the zing of lemon juice—making the preparation straightforward yet incredibly rewarding.
- Salmon fillet (1½ pounds, skinless, cubed): Choose fresh, firm salmon for the best texture and flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and helps the marinade cling to the salmon perfectly.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon + 1 tablespoon for sauce): Brings brightness and balances the richness of the fish and yogurt.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced/grated): Infuses a gentle, savory undertone throughout the dish.
- Salt (1 teaspoon, plus to taste for sauce): Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon, plus to taste for sauce): Adds subtle heat and depth.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives a touch of smoky warmth, elevating the grilled taste.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading the salmon cubes and easy grilling.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): Creates the creamy base for the cooling dill sauce.
- Fresh dill (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Lending an aromatic, herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with salmon.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Adds an extra layer of citrusy fragrance to the sauce.
How to Make Grilled Salmon Skewers with Creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
Begin by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. Add the salmon cubes and gently toss until they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Let the salmon sit covered in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This brief marinade time infuses the salmon with flavor while keeping the texture tender and juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Thread the marinated salmon cubes onto each skewer, leaving just enough space between pieces to ensure even heat circulation and cooking.
Step 3: Grill the Salmon Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning carefully. You’ll want the salmon to be opaque with lightly charred edges, signaling that it’s perfectly cooked without dryness.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce
While the salmon grills, mix together Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until creamy and well combined. Chill the sauce until everything is ready to serve, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
How to Serve Grilled Salmon Skewers with Creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like additional dill or parsley sprinkled over the skewers add a pop of color and enhance the fresh, herbaceous notes of the dish. A few thin lemon wedges served alongside will invite guests to add an extra citrus burst if they like.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with light, complementary sides. Think grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, a crisp cucumber salad, or even fluffy couscous accented with fresh herbs. Each side elevates the flavorful, healthy salmon without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, serve the salmon skewers on a platter lined with baby spinach or arugula, drizzling the creamy dill yogurt sauce over or offering it in individual small bowls for dipping. You can also assemble the skewers over a bed of quinoa or wild rice for a hearty meal presentation that’s colorful and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled salmon skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce keeps well for about the same time. Keeping them separate often preserves the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While you can freeze the salmon cubes before cooking, once grilled and sauced, freezing is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing. For best results, freeze raw, marinated salmon cubes and grill them fresh when ready.
Reheating
Reheat the grilled salmon skewers gently on a low heat grill or in a warm oven to avoid drying out the fish. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can toughen the salmon and diminish the fresh flavors of the creamy dill yogurt sauce.
FAQs
Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on salmon, but it’s best to grill skin-side down first to get a crisp texture and then flip carefully. Skinless fillets are simpler for skewering and eating without fuss.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the creamy dill yogurt sauce?
Absolutely! You can substitute plain plant-based yogurt, like almond or coconut yogurt, to keep it dairy-free while maintaining that creamy texture and tangy flavor.
How can I tell when the salmon skewers are perfectly cooked?
The salmon should be opaque throughout with slightly charred edges and firm to the touch but still moist inside. Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon tender and juicy.
Can I prepare this recipe indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop or broiling in the oven work well alternatives that still lend that lovely charred flavor and cook the salmon evenly.
How long can I marinate the salmon for best results?
Marinating for 20 to 30 minutes is ideal. Longer marinating can start to break down the fish and alter texture, especially with acidic marinades like lemon juice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about savoring the Grilled Salmon Skewers with Creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe—fresh, flavorful, and so simple to prepare. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual dinner or entertaining friends, this dish offers an impressive combination of smoky, tangy, and creamy that never disappoints. Give it a try and enjoy a beautiful balance of tastes that feel like sunshine on a plate!
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Grilled Salmon Skewers with Creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious grilled salmon skewers marinated with garlic, lemon, and smoked paprika, served with a creamy dill Greek yogurt sauce. This Mediterranean-inspired main course is healthy, high in protein, and perfect for summer grilling.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Skewers
- 1½ pounds skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Dill Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Salmon: Add the salmon cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure it is hot before cooking the salmon.
- Thread the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and thread the cubes onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking and heat circulation.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning carefully, until the salmon is opaque and has a slight char on the edges. Avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.
- Make the Dill Yogurt Sauce: While the salmon is grilling, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.
- Serve: Remove the grilled salmon skewers from the grill and serve warm, accompanied by the creamy dill yogurt sauce either on the side or drizzled on top.
Notes
- Pair the skewers with grilled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute plain Greek yogurt with your favorite plant-based yogurt alternative.
- Avoid overcooking the salmon to keep it tender and juicy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
