Lemon Dill Sauce
Lemon Dill Sauce 🍋🔥 is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 80 calories per serving. Recipe by David Lacamera on YouTube.
Prep: 1 hr 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 1 hr 20 min
Cost: $2.55 total, $0.64 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt (plain, full‑fat, unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
- 1 stalk Green Onion (white and green parts, chopped)
- 1 small Shallot (peeled and minced)
- 1 clove Garlic (crushed or minced)
- 1 juice Lemon (freshly squeezed, about 2 tablespoons)
- to taste Salt (kosher or sea salt)
- to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Prep the aromatics
On a cutting board, finely chop the green onion, dill, and shallot; crush the garlic clove.
Time: PT5M
Combine the sauce ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped green onion, dill, shallot, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Chill the sauce
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Time: PT1H
Serve
Spoon the chilled lemon dill sauce over grilled or baked chicken and enjoy.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 80
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 4 g
- Fiber
- 0.5 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb
Allergens: Dairy, Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Greek Yogurt: regular plain yogurt, sour cream, kefir
- Instead of Fresh Dill: dried dill (1 teaspoon), fresh parsley
- Instead of Green Onion: chives, thinly sliced scallion
- Instead of Shallot: red onion (½), yellow onion (½)
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (¼ teaspoon)
- Instead of Lemon: bottled lemon juice
- Instead of Salt: soy sauce (small amount)
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Refrigerator
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Finely chopping the herbs and shallot ensures a smooth texture
- Mixing until just combined prevents the yogurt from curdling
- Chilling for at least 1 hour is essential for flavor development
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for extra citrus aroma
- For a smoother texture, press the herbs through a fine mesh sieve before mixing
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too watery
Add an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt and whisk until the desired consistency is reached
Sauce is too thick
Thin with a teaspoon of cold water or additional lemon juice, mixing gradually
Flavor is bland
Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a splash of extra lemon juice and let it rest another 15 minutes
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Not recommended – freezing may cause separation
Room temperature: Keep refrigerated; do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours
Make-Ahead Tips
- The sauce can be prepared up to 2 days ahead; keep sealed and chilled
- Stir well before serving if separation occurs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of lemon dill sauce in American cuisine?
Lemon dill sauce reflects the American love for fresh, herb‑driven condiments that pair well with grilled proteins. It draws influence from Mediterranean and Scandinavian traditions where dill and citrus are common flavor pillars, adapting them into a quick, dairy‑based sauce for everyday meals.
What are traditional regional variations of lemon dill sauce in Mediterranean cuisine?
In Mediterranean cooking, similar sauces appear as Greek tzatziki (with cucumber) and Swedish gravlax dill sauce (often with mustard and sugar). The lemon‑dill version omits cucumber and mustard, focusing on bright lemon acidity and the herb’s fresh flavor.
How is lemon dill sauce traditionally served with chicken in Greek cuisine?
Greek cuisine often serves a lemon‑dill yogurt sauce alongside roasted or grilled chicken souvlaki, providing a cooling contrast to the smoky meat. It is drizzled over the chicken or served on the side for diners to add as they wish.
What occasions or celebrations is lemon dill sauce commonly served in the United States?
The sauce is popular at summer barbecues, family picnics, and casual dinner gatherings where grilled chicken is the centerpiece. Its light, refreshing profile makes it a favorite for warm‑weather meals and pot‑luck spreads.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional lemon dill sauce versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic lemon dill sauce relies on plain Greek yogurt, fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, and a mild shallot. Acceptable substitutes include regular plain yogurt or sour cream for the base, dried dill (reduced amount) for the herb, and bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons are unavailable.
What other dishes pair well with lemon dill sauce in Mediterranean cooking?
Beyond chicken, the sauce complements baked fish (especially salmon or cod), roasted vegetables, boiled potatoes, and even as a dip for pita bread or fresh crudités. Its bright flavor lifts rich, oily dishes.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making lemon dill sauce?
Common errors include over‑mixing the yogurt, which can cause it to curdle, using too much lemon juice that overpowers the dill, and skipping the chilling step, which prevents the flavors from marrying fully. Always taste and adjust seasoning before chilling.
Why does this lemon dill sauce recipe use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt provides a tangy, protein‑rich base with fewer calories and less fat than mayonnaise, while still delivering a creamy texture. It also aligns with the fresh, light character of the sauce, making it a healthier choice for everyday meals.
Can I make lemon dill sauce ahead of time and how should I store lemon dill sauce?
Yes, the sauce improves after resting. Prepare it up to two days in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a quick stir; if it has separated, whisk in a little extra yogurt or a splash of lemon juice.
What does the YouTube channel David Lacamera specialize in?
The YouTube channel David Lacamera focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking tutorials that emphasize fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and flavorful sauces that can elevate everyday meals.
How does the YouTube channel David Lacamera's approach to quick sauce recipes differ from other cooking channels?
David Lacamera prioritizes minimal equipment, short prep times, and ingredient accessibility, often using pantry staples and fresh herbs to create sauces that require no cooking. This contrasts with channels that rely on more elaborate techniques or extensive ingredient lists.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
