This creamy dill salmon soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It has tender salmon pieces mixed with soft vegetables all swimming in a rich, savory broth, perfect for chilly days.
Honestly, the dill adds such a fresh touch that you’ll be asking for seconds! I love to enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side—it makes every slurp even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here, providing great flavor and texture. If salmon isn’t available, you can substitute it with trout or any firm white fish like halibut or cod.
Broth: Using fish broth enhances the soup’s taste. However, vegetable broth works just as well for a vegetarian option. Consider homemade broth for richer flavor!
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its creamy consistency. If you want a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Dill: Fresh dill is essential for that herby taste. If you can’t find it, try substituting with fresh parsley or tarragon. Dried dill can also work, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Potatoes: I like using Yukon gold potatoes for a buttery flavor, but you can replace them with other waxy potatoes or even cauliflower for a low-carb option.
How Can I Sauté Onions and Garlic to Enhance Flavor?
Sautéing onions and garlic properly adds depth to your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a pot over medium heat. This will help release flavors better than high heat.
- Add onions first; let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they get soft and translucent.
- Then, add minced garlic. Keep an eye on it! Garlic cooks quickly and can burn if left too long.
- Cook for another minute until fragrant, then proceed with the recipe!
These simple steps will create a flavorful base for your soup that everyone will love.
How to Make Creamy Dill Salmon Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, cut into chunks
- 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or mild chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Bread slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy dill salmon soup takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes. It’s a cozy, quick dish that serves perfectly for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until they become translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will create a fantastic base for your soup!
2. Add the Potatoes:
Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine them with the onion and garlic mixture. This will help the flavors meld together.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the fish or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which will take about 15 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Salmon:
Once the potatoes are tender, gently add the salmon chunks to the pot. Simmer the soup gently for another 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Add Cream and Flavor:
Stir in the heavy cream, chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let the soup warm through gently without boiling for about 3 minutes, allowing all those flavors to come together beautifully.
6. Season the Soup:
Now, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure to taste it as you go—you want it to be just right!
7. Serve It Up:
Finally, ladle the creamy dill salmon soup into bowls. Garnish with extra fresh dill and a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes if you like a little heat. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread on the side to soak up all that deliciousness!
Enjoy your creamy, aromatic dill salmon soup!
Can I Use Canned Salmon Instead of Fresh Salmon?
Yes, you can use canned salmon for convenience! Just drain it well and add it at the end of the cooking process, stirring gently to heat through without breaking it up too much.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
To make the soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative such as coconut milk or cashew cream. Both options will add creaminess while keeping the flavor delicious!
Can I Freeze Leftover Salmon Soup?
Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What Other Herbs Can I Use Instead of Dill?
If dill isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with fresh parsley, tarragon, or chives. Each of these herbs will provide a unique flavor to the soup while still keeping it fresh and aromatic!
