“Cooking is a great way to explore new cultures,” my friend said as she passed around a plate of perfectly baked salmon, glistening with Mediterranean charm. Admittedly, this Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes has become my go-to for easy weeknight dinners that won’t skimp on flavor. Not only does it pack the nutritional punch of omega-3s and protein, but it also takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook! This dish transforms simple salmon fillets into a gourmet experience, thanks to the creamy feta and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Plus, its vibrant colors and enticing aroma are sure to impress anyone sitting at your dinner table. Curious about how this one-pan wonder can elevate your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why choose Mediterranean Baked Salmon? Flavor Packed: This dish bursts with savory notes from feta and sun-dried tomatoes, ensuring each bite is a delightful journey. Quick & Easy: With a total cook time under 30 minutes, weeknight dinners become a breeze without sacrificing quality. Health Benefits: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this salmon is not only tasty but also a nutritious choice for a heart-healthy meal. Versatile Options: Customize with fresh herbs or try variations like Spinach Feta Quesadillas for added flair. Impressive Presentation: Garnished with parsley and served with lemon slices, this meal makes for an elegant dish that leaves a lasting impression. Embrace the Mediterranean flavors and make dinner exciting again! Mediterranean Baked Salmon Ingredients For the Salmon • Salmon – 4 fillets (6 oz each); fresh or frozen, just ensure it’s thawed. • Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons; use this to moisten and enhance the fish flavor. • Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; it brings in a depth of savoriness that complements the salmon beautifully. • Salt and Pepper – to taste; essential for elevating all flavors in the dish. For the Topping • Feta Cheese – 1 cup, crumbled (about 6 oz); this adds a creamy, tangy kick, which is crucial for the Mediterranean Baked Salmon. • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – ½ cup, chopped; they offer sweetness and acidity; can substitute with fresh for a milder taste. • Dried Oregano – 1 teaspoon; adds earthy notes; fresh oregano can elevate the flavor even further if you have it on hand. • Olives (optional) – ¼ cup, pitted and sliced; they add a briny depth that pairs perfectly with the other flavors. For Garnish • Fresh Parsley – for a vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness before serving. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot environment right from the beginning, which helps the Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta cook evenly and develop a delightful, slightly crispy exterior. While the oven warms up, you can prepare the topping mixture. Step 2: Mix the Topping In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives (if using), olive oil, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and aromatic, creating a rich topping for your salmon. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the salmon fillets. Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Take your salmon fillets and place them skin-side down in a baking dish. Gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring better adhesion of the topping. Season each fillet with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the fish before adding the scrumptious toppings. Step 4: Top the Salmon Evenly spoon the feta and sun-dried tomato mixture over each salmon fillet, ensuring that every piece is generously covered. This not only infuses the salmon with flavor but also creates a beautiful visual presentation. The contrast of colors from the toppings will make your Mediterranean Baked Salmon truly inviting. Step 5: Cover and Bake To start the cooking process, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This step helps trap moisture, allowing the salmon to steam gently. Place the covered dish into the oven and bake for 15 minutes. This method will keep the fish juicy and tender while cooking through. Step 6: Finish Baking After 15 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil and return the dish to the oven. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a lovely, golden hue on top. This final phase will leave you with perfectly cooked, succulent salmon topped with creamy feta. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once your Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve it warm on a beautiful platter, possibly with lemon slices for a zesty finish that enhances all the flavors. What to Serve with Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta? Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with vibrant sides that harmonize beautifully with your main dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tender salmon, adding comfort to your meal. Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed with olive oil and garlic, these crisp green beans provide a refreshing crunch that balances the dish’s creaminess. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This light, zesty salad, bursting with fresh veggies and lemon vinaigrette, complements the salmon’s flavors while boosting the nutrient content. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, cauliflower rice adds a low-carb option that soaks up the salmon’s juices beautifully, creating a wholesome experience. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, a medley of seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers brings vibrant colors and earthy flavors to the table. Lemon Couscous: Fluffy and aromatic, couscous dressed with lemon juice perfectly complements the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes, making each bite delightful. Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine accentuates the dish’s rich flavors, adding a touch of elegance to your dining experience. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and concludes your Mediterranean feast on a wonderfully light note. Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine! Here are some fun twists for your Mediterranean Baked Salmon, each promising a unique flavor experience. Dairy-Free: Substitute feta with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese or almond-based feta for a creamy texture. Fresh Herbs: Add bold flavor with fresh herbs like basil, dill, or thyme. They elevate the dish and infuse wonderful aromas. Zesty Citrus: Bring brightness by adding lemon or orange zest to the topping. Citrus enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha over the salmon for those who enjoy a bit of heat. It creates an enticing contrast to the savory toppings. Vegetable Boost: Mix in chopped spinach or kale with the topping for added nutrients. Both greens introduce delightful texture and subtle earthiness. Different Fish: Swap salmon for other varieties like trout or tilapia. Each option offers a unique spin on this flavorful dish. Grain Pairing: Serve with a flavorful base, such as quinoa or couscous. This addition turns your dish into a wholesome, filling meal. Mediterranean Grain Salad: Pair it with a fresh Mediterranean grain salad, like tabbouleh, for an exciting twist. The flavors complement each other beautifully. Explore these variations to create a Mediterranean meal that your family will love! For more delicious options, try the heartwarming Baked Salmon Pasta or the vibrant Cajun Salmon Lemon. Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the feta and sun-dried tomato topping up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The salmon fillets can also be seasoned and placed in the baking dish ahead of time; just cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap, top with the prepped mixture, cover with aluminum foil, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, gourmet meal with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Mediterranean Baked Salmon Baking Tip: Ensure feta is at room temperature: This allows for even melting and a creamy texture on your Mediterranean Baked Salmon. Moisture Management: Pat salmon dry before seasoning: This helps the topping adhere better, avoiding a watery result. Check Doneness: Use a fork to flake at 15 minutes: Remove from the oven when the salmon flakes easily for perfect tenderness. Avoid Overcooking: Monitor the last 10 minutes closely: Salmon can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on it during the final baking stage. Customizable Topping: Feel free to experiment: Add fresh herbs or swap feta for goat cheese to tailor this Mediterranean Baked Salmon to your taste! How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Baked Salmon Fridge: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When reheating, gently warm in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture. Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the salmon tender and juicy. Storage Tips: If storing dressed with toppings, consume within a day for best texture, as feta and tomatoes can become watery over time. Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta & Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe FAQs What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for salmon fillets that are bright pink and free of dark spots. If you’re using fresh sun-dried tomatoes, choose those that are plump and evenly colored—avoid any that look shriveled or overly dark. As for feta, opt for a block of cheese rather than pre-crumbled versions, which can lose moisture and flavor. How should I store leftovers from the Mediterranean Baked Salmon? Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them in the microwave or oven to maintain the moisture and texture of the salmon. Encountering dryness? Add a splash of water before reheating to keep it juicy! Can I freeze Mediterranean Baked Salmon, and if so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps preserve the flavor and texture. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat it gently, as noted above. What should I do if my salmon isn’t cooking evenly? Very! If you find that your salmon isn’t cooking evenly, it could be due to the oven temperature or the positioning of the baking dish. Make sure you’re using an oven thermometer to check for accuracy, and consider rotating the dish halfway through cooking. Also, check that the fillets are similar in size to ensure even cooking. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! This Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, but if you’re catering to dietary restrictions, feta can be replaced with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese. Furthermore, be mindful of any guest allergies—common allergens include fish and dairy, so it’s always courteous to ask beforehand. Can I add more vegetables to this dish? The more the merrier! I often add chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the baking dish before adding the salmon. Just toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. These veggies not only add flavor and nutrition but also create a delightful one-pan meal that’s colorful and satisfying. Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta for a Flavorful Feast Delightful Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta, rich in flavor and omega-3s, perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 filletsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon4 fillets Salmon (6 oz each) fresh or frozen, ensure thawed2 tablespoons Olive Oil to moisten and enhance flavor2 cloves Garlic, minced for savorinessSalt and Pepper to tasteFor the Topping1 cup Feta Cheese, crumbled (about 6 oz)1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, chopped or fresh for milder taste1 teaspoon Dried Oregano or fresh for enhanced flavor1/4 cup Olives, pitted and sliced optionalFor GarnishFresh Parsley for garnish Equipment Baking dishMixing BowlAluminum foilOven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried oregano in a bowl. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in a baking dish. Pat dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Spoon the topping mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring each piece is covered. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until salmon flakes easily. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm, optionally with lemon slices. Nutrition Serving: 1filletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 34gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure feta is at room temperature for even melting. Pat salmon dry to help topping adhere. Check doneness by flaking at 15 minutes. Monitor during the last baking stage to avoid overcooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
