Mediterranean Salmon

This Mediterranean Salmon recipe is a delightful and healthy choice for any dinner. In just 15 minutes, you can serve flaky, tender salmon topped with a vibrant medley of summer produce. Perfect for weeknight meals or elegant dinner parties, this dish stands out with its fresh flavors and colorful presentation. Enjoy the simplicity of cooking on the stove or baking in the oven while savoring the sun-kissed ingredients typical of Mediterranean cuisine.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salmon
• For the Topping
• Additional Seasoning
• How to Make Mediterranean Salmon
• Step 1: Season Salmon
• Step 2: Pan Fry
• Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Topper
• Step 4: Finish and Serve
• How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon
• With Fresh Greens
• On a Grain Base
• With Dipping Sauces
• Accompanied by Breads
• How to Perfect Mediterranean Salmon
• Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Salmon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Mediterranean Salmon
• Reheating Mediterranean Salmon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Mediterranean Salmon?
• How long does it take to cook Mediterranean Salmon?
• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
• What sides pair well with Mediterranean Salmon?
• How should I store leftovers of Mediterranean Salmon?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal produce like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, this dish bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm straight from the skillet or as a chilled salad at your next gathering.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
• Elegant Presentation: The colorful toppings and perfectly cooked salmon make it appealing for special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into preparing your Mediterranean salmon, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Fish spatula
• Medium bowl
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfect cooking and creates a nice crust on the salmon.
• Fish spatula: Allows for gentle flipping of fragile fish fillets without breaking them apart.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing marinade ingredients to coat the salmon evenly.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 5-6 ounce salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil + more for skillet
• Juice of one lemon
• Kosher salt
• Cracked black pepper

For the Topping

• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• ⅔ cup green California ripe olives (pitted and halved)
• ½ English cucumber (diced)
• ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
• 3 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Additional Seasoning

• Cracked black pepper
• Olive oil
• Kosher salt

How to Make Mediterranean Salmon

Step 1: Season Salmon

In a medium bowl, add the salmon fillets. Sprinkle evenly with oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix together so that each fillet is well coated. Then, season both sides with kosher salt and cracked black pepper.

Step 2: Pan Fry

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drizzle in olive oil until the bottom of the pan is well coated. Place the salmon in the skillet skin side down. Cook for about 5 minutes. Using a fish spatula, gently flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes on the other side until fully cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Topper

While the salmon cooks, combine cherry tomatoes, green California olives, diced cucumber, chopped parsley, basil, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil in a bowl. Season with kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once cooked through, transfer the salmon to a serving platter. Top each fillet evenly with your prepared Mediterranean topper for an explosion of flavor and color. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon

Serving Mediterranean salmon is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some delicious ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of salmon.
• Greek Salad: This classic dish, featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, complements the Mediterranean theme beautifully.

On a Grain Base

• Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa adds a nutty flavor and texture that contrasts nicely with the flaky salmon.
• Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous can soak up the juices from the salmon and its toppings.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic adds a creamy touch to your dish.
• Chimichurri: This herby sauce made from parsley, garlic, and olive oil adds a vibrant kick to salmon.

Accompanied by Breads

• Pita Bread: Soft pita bread can be used to scoop up salmon and its toppings for a fun dining experience.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes an excellent side for soaking up any extra juices on your plate.

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How to Perfect Mediterranean Salmon

Perfecting Mediterranean salmon is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and seasonal vegetables will enhance both flavor and nutrition in your dish.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked salmon becomes dry. Aim for just cooked through but still flaky.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix up the herbs based on what you have available—thyme or dill can also work well.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your salmon right after cooking while it’s still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Salmon

Complementing your Mediterranean salmon with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil add color and nutrients.
2. Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf seasoned with herbs pairs wonderfully with the fish.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus grilled until charred enhances the fresh flavors of the main dish.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains or meats add a colorful addition to your plate.
5. Lemon Garlic Broccoli: Bright broccoli tossed in lemon juice and garlic offers freshness that balances richness.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a comforting side that complements any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mediterranean salmon, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish significantly.

• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to prevent dryness. Aim for a few minutes less than you think.
• Not seasoning properly: Seasoning enhances flavor. Don’t skip kosher salt and pepper; they make a big difference.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and produce are key to a vibrant dish. Always choose fresh over dried or canned when possible.
• Skipping the marinade: Marinating salmon adds depth of flavor. Even a short 10-minute soak in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs helps.
• Neglecting the topping: The Mediterranean topper is essential. Ensure it’s fresh and well-mixed for maximum taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mediterranean Salmon

• Wrap salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Mediterranean Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat salmon wrapped in foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes on medium power.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add a splash of olive oil, then warm the salmon gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Mediterranean salmon that might help you.

What is Mediterranean Salmon?

Mediterranean salmon is a healthy dish featuring salmon fillets seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and topped with fresh vegetables and feta cheese.

How long does it take to cook Mediterranean Salmon?

This recipe takes only about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick dinners.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just ensure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking for even results.

What sides pair well with Mediterranean Salmon?

Consider serving it with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad to complement the flavors.

How should I store leftovers of Mediterranean Salmon?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean salmon recipe is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different toppings or serve it alongside various sides. Give it a try at your next dinner party or family meal!