Catch a whiff of this Mediterranean Salmon as it sizzles away in the oven, its fragrant blend of herbs whisking you off to sun-drenched shores. Imagine bright lemon zest mingling with fresh basil and perfectly seared fish – a combination so delectable that even your taste buds will do the happy dance.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of salmon is best for Mediterranean salmon?
- Can I grill Mediterranean salmon instead of baking it?
- How do I know when my salmon is cooked perfectly?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish is perfect for dinner parties, casual family nights, or even when you need a little self-love (because who doesn’t deserve a gourmet meal once in a while?). With each bite, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that’ll have you dreaming of warm breezes and seaside picnics. Are you ready to dive into this culinary journey?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mediterranean salmon is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will impress anyone.
- Its vibrant colors make it a showstopper at any gathering.
- Versatile enough for grilling or baking, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
- The delightful aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
I remember the first time I made this Mediterranean Salmon; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their compliments made me feel like a Michelin star chef.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Opt for skin-on fillets for added flavor and moisture during cooking.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems burst with sweetness when roasted; choose ripe ones for the best results.
- Red Onion: Slice into wedges; they caramelize beautifully and add depth to the dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh is best; they infuse an irresistible aroma as they cook.
- Fresh Basil: Use fragrant leaves for garnish and extra flavor; dried basil won’t cut it here!
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Brighten up the dish with zesty lemon; it’ll elevate all those Mediterranean flavors.
- Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil brings richness and depth; don’t skimp on this!
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly while preserving moisture.
Prepare Your Veggies: Toss cherry tomatoes and red onion wedges in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet for roasting.
Season the Salmon: Place your salmon fillets skin-side down on top of the veggies. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic cloves (whole), salt, and pepper.
Add Fresh Herbs and Zest: Scatter chopped basil over the salmon fillets along with lemon zest for an aromatic kick that makes everything sing!
Bake Until Perfectly Flaky: Pop your baking sheet into the oven for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains moist.
Serve and Enjoy!: Once plated, drizzle any remaining juices from the pan over your masterpiece. Garnish with extra basil if you want to impress!
Now you’re ready to serve this stunning Mediterranean Salmon! It pairs beautifully with quinoa or a side salad—a complete meal that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every bite as you savor those delightful flavors dancing on your palate.
You Must Know
- Mediterranean salmon is not just a dish; it’s a culinary journey.
- The vibrant flavors and colors will transport you straight to the shores of the Mediterranean.
- You can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables for a fresh twist.
- Plus, this dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by marinating the salmon while preheating the oven. Next, roast your vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding the salmon for the final bake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different herbs or use lemon zest instead of juice for added brightness. Adding olives or capers can also elevate your Mediterranean experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Mediterranean salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your salmon is at room temperature before cooking for even results.
- Avoid overcooking by using a thermometer; it should reach 145°F.
- Experiment with different marinades for unique flavor profiles that keep things interesting!
Sometimes, I whip up this Mediterranean salmon when I want to impress guests but barely lift a finger, and they always rave about it!
FAQ
What type of salmon is best for Mediterranean salmon?
Wild-caught salmon offers richer flavor and better texture compared to farmed options.
Can I grill Mediterranean salmon instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the marinade beautifully.
How do I know when my salmon is cooked perfectly?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Mediterranean Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the bright and zesty flavors of this Mediterranean Salmon recipe, enriched with fresh herbs and vegetables, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 4 garlic cloves, whole
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss cherry tomatoes and red onion wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on top of the veggies. Drizzle with remaining olive oil, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with chopped basil and lemon zest.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains moist.
- Serve warm, drizzling any pan juices over the salmon.
Notes
- You can substitute different herbs like oregano or parsley for variation.
- Try adding olives or capers for an extra Mediterranean twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
