🐟 Mediterranean Baked Salmon
🌿 Description
This Mediterranean Baked Salmon is a go-to healthy dinner that feels special without being complicated. The salmon is baked gently with extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon, garlic, and classic Mediterranean herbs, then finished with tomatoes and olives for brightness. It’s heart-healthy, high in protein, and naturally flavorful, perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
-
4 salmon fillets (150–180 g / 5–6 oz each)
-
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
Zest of 1 lemon
-
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
½ tsp dried thyme or dill
-
½ tsp paprika
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Mediterranean Add-Ins
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
-
1 tbsp capers
-
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
🔪 Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F. Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
-
Prepare marinade
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Season salmon
Place salmon fillets skin-side down. Spoon marinade evenly over each piece. -
Add toppings
Scatter tomatoes, olives, and capers around the salmon if using. -
Bake
Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork. -
Finish & serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
🌿 Mediterranean Serving Ideas
-
Serve with roasted vegetables or asparagus
-
Pair with lemon rice, quinoa, or couscous
-
Add a side of Greek salad or tzatziki
❓ Q & A – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know when salmon is done?
A: The flesh should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 63°C / 145°F.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before baking for best texture.
Q: Can I cook this in foil?
A: Absolutely. Foil creates extra moisture—open the foil for the last few minutes if you want light browning.
Q: Is this recipe good for weight management?
A: Yes. Salmon provides healthy omega-3 fats and protein, fitting perfectly into a Mediterranean diet.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free and gluten-free?
A: It already is—no substitutions needed.
Q: What herbs work best?
A: Dill, parsley, oregano, thyme, or basil all complement salmon beautifully.
