Okay, friends, let me tell you about the Mediterranean Salmon Bake. This one’s a game-changer. I used to be intimidated by cooking salmon, thinking it was only for fancy restaurants. But this recipe? This is so easy, my eleven-year-old practically makes it herself now (with supervision, of course!). I think of it as the weeknight superhero version of those complicated salmon en croute recipes, without all the fuss and flaky pastry. Seriously, if you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple dinner, look no further. This Mediterranean Salmon Bake is your answer!
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
What is a Mediterranean Salmon Bake?
Think of it like a vibrant vacation on a plate! It’s essentially fresh salmon fillets baked with a medley of classic Mediterranean flavors. We’re talking juicy tomatoes, briny olives, salty feta cheese, fragrant herbs, and a generous drizzle of good olive oil. The beauty of it is how all these bold flavors meld together in the oven, creating a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and good for you. It’s not just salmon, it’s an experience! It’s like taking all the best bits of a Greek salad and pairing them perfectly with a flaky, tender piece of fish. Absolutely divine!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this Mediterranean Salmon Bake is that it’s deceptively simple. It LOOKS like you spent ages slaving away in the kitchen, but honestly, it comes together in under a week. What’s not to love about it?
- The Flavor:What is the taste explosion? The salty olives and feta, combined with the sweet tomatoes and the richness of the salmon… It’s savory, bright, and incredibly moreish.
- The Simplicity:What is a throw-it-all-in-a-dish-and-bake kind of Minimal chopping, minimal fuss, maximum flavor. What is a lifesaver when you are rushing around with sexy schedule?
- The Cost-EfficiWhile salmon can be a bit pricey, this recipe stretches it beautifully with all the other ingredients. Affordable Mediterranean ingredients. I’ve found that buying a larger fillet and cutting it into portions is more economical. Can you use canned salmon or tuna?
- The Versatility:Can you serve this hot, cold, on pasta, in salads…the possibilities are endless! Is it good for a fancy dinner party as it is for lunch the next day? I sometimes make a big batch on Sunday to have for easy meals throughout the week.
If you’re a fan of my lemon herb baked cod, you are going to *adore* this. What is a Mediterranean twist? It is simply devine.
How do you make Mediterranean salmon?
Quick Overview
Making this Mediterranean Salmon Bake is as easy as 1-2-3! Basically, you arrange your salmon fillets in a baking dish, top them with a colorful mix of Mediterranean goodies, drizzle with olive oil, and bake until flaky and cooked through. The beauty of this method is that everything bakes together, infusing the salmon with all those incredible flavors. It’s truly a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal!
Ingredients
For the Mediterranean Salmon Bake:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (I prefer skin off for extra flavor, but it’s totally up to you).
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (Look for the ones that are still a bit firm, they hold up better in the fridge).
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (Don’t skimp on the olive oil! They add a crucial salty kick) to any meal.
- I like to use the block feta packed in brine, it has a creamier texture. I also like the mozzarella cheese.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (Soak the onion in cold water for 10 minutes to take away some of the juice from the skin). What is the sharpness of a
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe)
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (If you don’t have fresh, you can use 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (Parsley adds a lovely freshness)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (Use a good quality Olive oil, it makes the difference!)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (Don’t be afraid to season generously!)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. How do you prevent salmon from sticking to your skin? I always do this before I start anything else to make sure the oven is ready and waiting.
Step 2: Arrange Salmon
Arrange the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, so they cook evenly. If your fillets are particularly thick, you might need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
Step 3: Add Veggies & Herbs
In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, red onion, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Set aside. What are some good recipes for ore Toss everything together until well combined. Where do the Mediterranean flavors start to come together?
Step 4: Top the Salmon
Spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, making sure they get a generous amount of tomato sauce. The more the merrier, in my opinion!
Step 5: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon and tomato mixture. This adds richness and helps everything bake beautifully. Don’t be shy with olive oil, it’s key to the flavor of this dish!
Step 6: Season
Season with salt and freshly ground Black Pepper. Remember, feta and olives are already salty, so be careful not to over-salt. I usually start with a small amount and then taste it before adding more.
Step 7: Bake
In the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes. How can I make a fork easily? How long does it take for salmon to bake? Keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking. I always start checking around 12 minutes. Don’t forget the temperature! I use a thermometer sometimes when I want to be sure. Usually 145F degrees.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. I love to garnish with extra fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. The lemon juice really brightens up all the flavors!
What should I serve it with?
Mediterranean Salmon Bake is incredibly versatile, so you can serve it with just about anything. What are some of my favorite pairings?
For a Light Lunch:Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscou. A healthy lunch. A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce adds a nice creamy element.
What is a simple side dish?What is a good side salad with lemon vinaigrette? I also love serving it with roasted asparagus or Green Beans.
What is a hearty meal?Serve it alongside Roasted Potatoes or a creamy risotto for supper. A crusty loaf of bread is also a must for soaking up all those delicious juices!
My Family Tradition: What is your family My grandmother always served this with a side of her famous lemon potatoes. It’s a combination I will never grow tired of!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Mediterranean Salmon Bake
Want to take your Mediterranean Salmon Bake to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:
Salmon Selection: Choose high-quality salmon fillets that are firm and have a vibrant color. Fresh salmon is always best, but frozen works too. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Olive Oil Quality: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It really makes a difference!
Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when it’s cooked just until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. I sometimes add a drizzle of sriracha for extra spice!
Lemon Love: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up all the flavors and adds a lovely tang.
My Lesson Learned: I once tried using dried oregano instead of fresh and it just wasn’t the same. Fresh herbs are key to getting that authentic Mediterranean flavor!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Mediterranean Salmon Bake:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the salmon for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave it, bake it in the oven, or pan-fry it. I prefer baking it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps prevent it from drying out.
Glaze Timing Advice: I recommend adding the glaze right before serving, regardless of the storage method, to maintain its shine and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Honestly, I think this Mediterranean Salmon Bake is one of those recipes that everyone should have in their back pocket. It’s easy, healthy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, elegant dinner parties, or even a simple lunch. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and good for you, this is it! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other Mediterranean-inspired dishes, like my Greek Lemon chicken or my Mediterranean quinoa salad.
Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you tried this recipe! Share your variations with me!
Savory Baked Chicken with Mediterranean Flavors
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt or to taste
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 0.25 cup Kalamata olives, pitted optional
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub them with olive oil. Season both sides with sea salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Place the chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle minced garlic over the chicken, ensuring even distribution.
- Distribute the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and capers around and on top of the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crisp and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
