This dish brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Imagine tender salmon fillets seasoned perfectly and topped with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables that practically dance with flavor. The aroma alone will have your taste buds doing a happy jig as you dream of sun-soaked shores and delicious meals shared with loved ones.
I remember the first time I made this Mediterranean salmon for my family. They devoured it in mere minutes, leaving me wondering if I had made enough. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or fancy enough for guests. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will impress everyone and leave them asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mediterranean salmon is deliciously easy to prepare and full of flavors that transport you straight to the coastal shores.
- The vibrant colors make it visually stunning while being versatile enough for various occasions.
- Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste!
I served this dish at a family gathering once, and the compliments kept rolling in. Who knew I could be a culinary hero with just one recipe?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Fresh or frozen works; just ensure they are sustainably sourced for the best flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness of the dish.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds brightness; bottled can’t compete with that zing!
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy tomatoes bring color and flavor; choose firm ones for best results.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion offers sweetness; soak in water if you prefer a milder taste.
- Kalamata Olives: These briny beauties add depth; pitted makes prep easier.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds freshness; feel free to substitute parsley if desired.
- Dried Oregano: This herb amplifies the Mediterranean essence; use generously!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; don’t skip these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into creating this beautiful dish together!
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking for your salmon.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. You want your delicious creation to come out easily without losing any glory.
Mix Vegetables: In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, Kalamata olives, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss them well until everything is coated in zesty goodness.
Add Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish surrounded by your veggie mix. Drizzle additional olive oil over the top of each fillet for extra moisture.
Bake Away: Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!
Add Fresh Herbs: Once cooked, sprinkle chopped basil over everything before serving. This bright touch seals the deal on flavor!
Enjoying this delightful Mediterranean salmon will have everyone raving about your cooking skills! Serve it alongside rice or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Marinate your salmon in a shallow dish with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply for a richer taste.
While the salmon is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil and place the salmon fillets skin-side down, surrounded by the cherry tomato mixture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix things up! Swap out lemon for a splash of orange juice, or add capers for an extra briny punch. You could even toss in some cherry tomatoes or olives before baking to create a vibrant medley.
Storing & Reheating
To keep your Mediterranean salmon fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out and losing that delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Fresh herbs elevate Mediterranean salmon; try substituting basil or dill for a twist.
- Don’t skip marinating; it enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Remember, overcooking is the enemy of juicy salmon—keep an eye on the clock!
When I first made Mediterranean salmon for friends, their reactions were priceless. They couldn’t believe how simple it was yet so bursting with flavor!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw it completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even flavor distribution.
What side dishes pair well with Mediterranean salmon?
Consider serving it with quinoa salad or roasted vegetables for a delightful meal experience.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Mediterranean Salmon
Mediterranean Salmon is a vibrant dish that combines fresh flavors and healthy ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish and surround them with the vegetable mixture. Drizzle additional olive oil over the salmon.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Sprinkle chopped basil on top before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Find it online: https://svetb.com/mediterranean-salmon/
