Dill Sauce

Tags / Categories: Fresh, Herbaceous, Tangy, Creamy, Dill, Yogurt, Lemon, Nordic, Scandinavian, Seafood, Vegetables, Salads

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Yield: 1 cup (about 8 servings)

Let’s talk dill sauce — that bright, fresh, herb-forward condiment that’s perfect for your seafood nights, crisp veggies, or even drizzled over baked potatoes. This vibrant sauce puts dill herb front and center, pairing it with creamy, tangy elements that make it irresistible and incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (about a small handful)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional but adds silkiness)

How to Make Dill Sauce

Ready to dive in? Your kitchen is about to smell amazing. Don’t stress if your sauce looks a bit rustic or chunky — that’s charm, not error.

1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the freshly chopped dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Give it a good stir, folding the ingredients well together.
3. Drizzle in the olive oil and continue to mix — this little step brings everything together with a silky finish.
4. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust — sometimes a pinch more dill brightens the whole mixture wonderfully.
5. Pop the sauce into the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions: Where Does Dill Sauce Shine?

Dill sauce is your kitchen’s best friend when it comes to elevating simple dishes with minimal effort. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Seafood: Dollop generously over grilled salmon, poached cod, or crispy fish sticks.
• Vegetables: Use as a dip for crunchy cucumber slices, steamed asparagus, or roasted carrots.
• Salads & Bowls: Drizzle on grain bowls or potato salad for an extra herbaceous kick.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Spread inside wraps or sandwiches to replace mayo for something fresher.

Origin & History

Dill, with its feathery fronds and distinctive aroma, has been cherished for centuries, especially in Northern and Eastern Europe. This sauce is a classic Scandinavian companion to fish—think Sweden, Norway, and Denmark—where dill thrives in the cooler climates. Its use dates back to Viking times, not only for flavor but also its supposed medicinal and preservative properties. Today, dill sauce remains a beloved staple, integral to Nordic cuisine and a favorite in kitchens worldwide.

Variations & Substitutions

If you want to shake things up, here are some tweaks and swaps to keep your dill sauce fresh and exciting:

• Dairy swap: Use vegan yogurt or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Herb boost: Add minced chives or parsley alongside dill for complexity.
• Mustard variations: Try whole-grain mustard for texture or add a touch of horseradish for a spicy punch.
• Extra tang: Swap lemon juice for white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
• Thicker sauce: Incorporate a bit of cream cheese or mayo for a richer, spreadable texture.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

You can make dill sauce up to 2 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge; the flavors will only deepen. Give it a quick stir before serving since sometimes ingredients settle or thicken. While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it in small portions — just thaw in the fridge and whisk to recombine (note: texture may change slightly but flavor stays lovely!).

Nutritional Information (per 2-tbsp serving)

• Calories: ~30
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 1.5g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Sugar: 1g

Related Sauces / Try Next

• Tzatziki — A cucumber and yogurt sauce with garlic and mint, perfect for Mediterranean dishes.
• Herb Yogurt Dressing — Combine fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint for a vibrant green sauce.
• Lemon Garlic Aioli — Creamy and zesty, a garlic lover’s dream perfect for fries and sandwiches.

FAQ

Q: Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
A: Fresh dill really makes this sauce sing, but if dried is all you have, use about one-third the amount and add it early to help it rehydrate.

Q: Is dill sauce suitable for dipping raw veggies?
A: Absolutely! Its creamy texture and fresh taste make it ideal for crunchy carrot sticks, bell peppers, or snap peas.

Q: How long does dill sauce keep in the fridge?
A: Store it up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Always give it a stir before serving and discard if it looks or smells off.

In sum, dill sauce is a simple yet wonderful condiment that brings a fresh, bright dimension to many dishes. Its ease and versatility make it a must-have in your refrigerator. Whether you’re dressing up seafood or adding instant flair to veggies, this sauce is a delicious way to bring a little herbaceous sunshine to your plate!