Mediterranean Salmon
This Mediterranean Salmon recipe is a delightful dish that brings the essence of summer to your table. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy flaky, tender salmon enhanced by fresh, vibrant toppings. Perfect for casual dinners or elegant gatherings, this dish offers a burst of flavor and healthful ingredients. The combination of juicy tomatoes, olives, and herbs makes it not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of seasonal produce ensures each bite is filled with vibrant flavors.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal for various occasions, from family dinners to dinner parties or summer barbecues.
- Nutritious Meal: Packed with healthy fats from salmon and olives, making it a heart-healthy choice.
- Flavorful Toppings: The Mediterranean topper adds a refreshing twist that elevates the dish.
Tools and Preparation
To create this Mediterranean Salmon dish, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast-iron skillet
- Medium bowl
- Fish spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast-iron skillet: Perfect for achieving a crispy skin on the salmon while maintaining moisture.
- Medium bowl: Ideal for marinating the salmon fillets evenly with spices and oil.
- Fish spatula: Designed to easily flip delicate fish without breaking it apart.
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 Mediterranean Topper
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- ⅔ cup green California ripe olives (pitted and halved)
- ½ English cucumber (diced)
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
- 3 tbsps chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Seasonings
- 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 them evenly with oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat the fillets. 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. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once hot, place the salmon in the skillet skin side down. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Carefully flip the fillets using a fish spatula and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes on the other side until cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Topper
While the salmon is cooking, prepare your topper. In a bowl, mix together halved cherry tomatoes, green California ripe olives, diced cucumber, parsley, basil, crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season to taste with kosher salt and cracked black pepper.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once cooked through, transfer the salmon fillets onto a serving platter. Generously top each piece with your prepared Mediterranean mixture before serving. Enjoy this beautiful dish that embodies summer flavors!
How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon
Serving Mediterranean salmon can elevate your dining experience with its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this dish.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Greek Salad: Toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta for a refreshing side.
- Quinoa Salad: Combine cooked quinoa with herbs, lemon juice, and diced vegetables for a nutritious option.
Accompany with Grains
- Couscous: Serve fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest to soak up the salmon’s juices.
- Brown Rice: The nutty flavor of brown rice makes a hearty base that pairs well with Mediterranean flavors.
Add Seasonal Vegetables
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Roasted Zucchini: Sweet roasted zucchini drizzled with olive oil enhances the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
Offer Dipping Sauces
- Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce with cucumber and garlic complements the richness of salmon.
- Chimichurri Sauce: This herby sauce adds brightness and zing to your meal.
How to Perfect Mediterranean Salmon
To achieve perfectly cooked Mediterranean salmon, keep these tips in mind for a delicious result every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vibrant vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook until just flaky to retain moisture; ideally, it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; add more salt or pepper based on your preference for flavor enhancement.
- Try Different Cooking Methods: Whether pan-frying or baking, both methods yield delightful results—adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps maintain its juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Salmon
Pairing sides with your Mediterranean salmon can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent side dish ideas:
- Roasted Potatoes: Golden brown potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a comforting addition.
- Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the salmon.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach tossed in olive oil provides a nutrient-rich side that’s easy to prepare.
- Mediterranean Farro Salad: This hearty grain salad combines farro, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta for texture and flavor.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or rice mixed with vegetables and spices for a colorful presentation.
- Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A cooling yogurt salad balances the warmth of the salmon and adds refreshing flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking Mediterranean salmon, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using Old Ingredients: Freshness matters! Always use fresh herbs and produce for the best flavor.
- Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Avoid overcooking by checking it at the 7-minute mark to maintain tenderness.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t underestimate seasoning! Always season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the dish’s flavors.
- Neglecting the Topper: The Mediterranean topper is crucial. Don’t skip it; it adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.
- Not Preheating the Skillet: A hot skillet ensures a beautiful sear. Preheat your pan before adding the salmon for optimal cooking results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best quality.
Freezing Mediterranean Salmon
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mediterranean Salmon
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Mediterranean salmon that may help you in your cooking journey.
What is Mediterranean Salmon?
Mediterranean salmon is a dish featuring salmon fillets seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and topped with fresh produce like tomatoes and olives for vibrant flavors.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it’s thawed completely before cooking for even cooking results.
What sides pair well with Mediterranean Salmon?
Consider serving with a fresh salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to complement your meal beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Mediterranean salmon recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in portions.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean salmon recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. With its quick preparation time and customizable toppings, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs based on your preferences!
Mediterranean Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mediterranean Salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that brings a taste of summer to your dinner table. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy tender salmon fillets topped with a vibrant mixture of fresh tomatoes, olives, and herbs. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings, offering both health benefits and stunning presentation. The combination of juicy produce and flaky salmon creates a delightful meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (5–6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of one lemon
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- ⅔ cup green California ripe olives (pitted and halved)
- ½ English cucumber (diced)
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets with oregano, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and place the salmon skin-side down. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown; flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes until cooked through.
- While the salmon cooks, combine cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumber, parsley, basil, feta cheese, and olive oil in a bowl to prepare the topping.
- Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a platter and generously top with the Mediterranean mixture before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 476
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
