Our Traeger Lemon Dill Salmon is a simple, bright recipe that celebrates the rich flavor of fresh salmon. With just olive oil, lemon, dill, and kosher salt, the fish shines without heavy sauces or lengthy prep. It’s a practical, grill-friendly meal that comes together in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed outdoor dinners.
Traeger Lemon Dill Salmon
We’re big salmon fans here, especially after learning to catch it ourselves. My early experiences with overcooked, farmed Atlantic salmon put me off for a while, but trying fresh salmon—raw and seared—changed everything. When cooked correctly, salmon is tender, flaky, and full of natural flavor, and this recipe is designed to showcase that with minimal fuss.
This recipe was originally posted in August 2018 and has been updated and reshot for clarity and improved photos as of July 20, 2025.
This method works especially well for larger filets but adapts easily to smaller portions. The approach is quick, flexible, and highlights the ocean-fresh taste of the fish without a long marinade or complicated steps. Lemon and dill are a classic pairing for salmon—bright, clean, and reliably delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Fast & Easy – Minimal prep and under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Clean Flavors – Lemon and dill enhance the salmon without masking it.
- Grill-Friendly – Built for pellet grills like a Traeger, but works on any grill set to similar temperatures.
- Flaky Texture – Gentle cooking keeps the fish tender and moist.
- Healthy & Satisfying – High in protein and omega-3s with no heavy sauces.
Recipe Shopping List
You only need a few everyday ingredients to make this dish. Quantities and exact measurements are included in the recipe card further down.
- Salmon filet – Choose a thick, even piece for the best results on the grill.
- Olive oil – Keeps the fish moist and prevents sticking.
- Kosher salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the salmon.
- Dill – Fresh or dried both work; fresh dill adds a brighter finish.
- Lemon – Use for both flavor and a finishing squeeze before serving.
How To Make This Recipe (Overview)
Below is a concise overview of the steps. Refer to the full recipe card for exact amounts and timing based on your filet size.
- Start the Grill: Set a pellet or other grill to the smoke setting briefly to build smoke, then preheat to 350°F.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the filet skin-side down on non-stick foil. Drizzle with olive oil, season with kosher salt and dill, and top with lemon slices or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Grill the Salmon: Lay the foil with salmon directly on the grates, close the lid, and grill for about 15–20 minutes. Thicker filets may need a few extra minutes—watch for flaky, opaque flesh.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the grill, let the filet rest 3–5 minutes, then serve with your preferred sides.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
Yes. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill in place of 1 teaspoon of dried dill for a brighter herb flavor.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center. Food-safety guidelines list 145°F as a finished temperature, but many cooks prefer pulling salmon at around 135°F for a juicier result. Use a thermometer if you want precision.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or serve cold in salads and sandwiches.
What type of salmon works best?
Wild-caught varieties such as Chinook or Coho are excellent choices if available; they tend to have richer flavor and firmer texture than some farmed options. Thicker filets will need a bit more time on the grill.
Serve This With
- Garlic roasted asparagus or steamed green beans
- Wild rice pilaf or simple steamed rice
- Refreshing cucumber salad or creamy coleslaw
- Crusty bread to sop up juices
More Salmon Ideas
-
Air Fryer Hot Honey Salmon Bites
-
Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon
-
Blackstone Salmon Sandwich
Traeger Grilled Lemon Dill Salmon
An easy lemon dill salmon recipe cooked on a pellet or other grill—bright, tender, and packed with flavor.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 large salmon filet
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced or for squeezing
Instructions
- Preheat your pellet grill or other grill to 350°F. If you like a smoky flavor, run the smoke setting briefly before closing the lid to stabilize temperature.
- Place the salmon skin-side down on a sheet of non-stick foil. Drizzle with olive oil and season evenly with kosher salt and dill. Add lemon slices on top or reserve lemon to squeeze after cooking.
- Place the foil with the salmon directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon should flake easily and be opaque in the center.
- Remove from the grill and let rest 3–5 minutes before serving. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 485 • Total Fat: 41g • Saturated Fat: 6g • Unsaturated Fat: 33g • Cholesterol: 72mg • Sodium: 1129mg • Carbohydrates: 4g • Fiber: 1g • Sugar: 1g • Protein: 26g