Dill Cream Sauce - A Delicate and Aromatic Topping

Looking for a refreshing alternative to heavier cream sauces? Enter dill cream sauce! With its bright herbaceous flavor, this delicate sauce pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, vegetables and more. Read on to learn how to make this easy, aromatic sauce in minutes.

What is Dill Cream Sauce?

Dill cream sauce is a light sauce made by simmering fresh dill and shallots into a mixture of cream, butter, and chicken or vegetable broth. Often thickened slightly with flour or cornstarch, the result is a creamy sauce infused with flavors of grassy dill.

It can be served warm over fish, chicken, vegetarian dishes or even used to top baked potatoes or eggs. Its versatility and easy preparation make it a great option for brightening up weeknight meals.

Benefits of Dill Cream Sauce

Dill cream sauce offers:

• Fresh, herbaceous flavor
• Rich yet lighter alternative to cheese or butter-based sauces
• Refreshing change from acidic or tomato-based sauces
• Versatile pairing with poultry, seafood, vegetables, and more
• Easy to make with minimal ingredients

Keep reading for an easy homemade recipe!

Choosing Fresh Dill

To make great dill sauce, choose fresh dill with:

• Bright green feathery leaves
• No wilting, yellowing or browning
• Fresh, herbaceous aroma
• Sturdy stems

Look for bunches with the roots attached for longest shelf life. Remove any slimy, damaged stems before using the leaves.

Dill Sauce Ingredients

You'll need just a few simple ingredients:

• Fresh dill
• Shallot or onion
• Butter
• Flour
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Heavy cream
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

See the step-by-step recipe below for precise measurements and preparation instructions.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Sauté the Aromatics

Melt 1 Tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced shallot just until softened. Add 3 Tbsp fresh chopped dill and continue cooking 1 minute more.

Make a Roux

Whisk in 1 Tbsp flour. Cook while continuing to whisk for 2 minutes to create a blonde roux.

Add Liquid

While whisking constantly, slowly pour in 3/4 cup broth, 1/4 cup cream, and a splash of lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.

Finish and Season

Once thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, remove from heat. Stir in 1 Tbsp butter and 1 Tbsp fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve Warm

Pour sauce over cooked fish, chicken or veggies. Garnish with extra chopped dill.

Serving Suggestions

This delicate dill sauce pairs well with:

• Baked or grilled white fish like cod, halibut, or snapper
• Sauteed chicken breasts
• Vegetable dishes like green beans, asparagus, or cauliflower
• Hard boiled or poached eggs
• Baked potatoes

Storing Leftover Sauce

Properly stored, dill cream sauce keeps:

• Refrigerated for 3-4 days
• Frozen for up to 3 months

Reheat gently before serving again.

Tips for Perfect Dill Sauce

• Use fresh dill rather than dried for best flavor
• Chop dill finely to release flavorful oils
• Add dill early on so flavor infuses the sauce
• Whisk in flour to prevent lumps
• Simmer just until thickened enough to coat back of spoon

Common Questions

What goes well with dill sauce?

Fish, chicken, eggs, potatoes, and spring vegetables pair especially nicely.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be subbed for all or part of the cream.

Is dill sauce gluten free?

Yes, as long as gluten free flour or cornstarch is used as the thickener.

Does the sauce freeze well?

It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating to serve.

Can I use lemon zest instead of juice?

Absolutely, lemon zest can provide bright citrus flavor as well.

Make an Easy, Elegant Sauce with Fresh Dill

Dill cream sauce only requires a handful of ingredients that come together in minutes. Yet the result is an elegant, refreshing sauce that complements a variety of dishes beautifully. For a fast flavor boost, give this easy homemade dill sauce a try soon!