Mediterranean Salmon Bake

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Bring a burst of vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table with this wholesome and easy Mediterranean Salmon Bake. This dish is the perfect balance of healthful ingredients and rich, savory goodness. It combines flaky, oven-roasted salmon with a medley of juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, capers, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon zest—all topped with creamy feta. The result is a colorful, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both satisfying and light.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or just making a cozy weeknight meal, this salmon bake is a guaranteed hit. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to prep as it is impressive to serve. And best of all? Cleanup is a breeze, thanks to the simplicity of roasting everything together. Mediterranean Salmon Bake is a weeknight dinner with weekend-worthy flavor.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create a flawless Mediterranean Salmon Bake, having the right tools makes all the difference:

• Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: This is where everything comes together. Opt for a ceramic or metal baking dish with edges to hold in the juices and oils from the salmon and vegetables.
• Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: Not only does this make cleanup effortless, but it also helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: You’ll need to chop ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and herbs, so a quality knife ensures precision.
• Zester or Microplane: To get that fresh lemon zest, which brightens the dish.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For combining your olive oil, herbs, garlic, and lemon juice mixture that infuses the salmon with flavor.
• Tongs or a Spatula: To serve the salmon without breaking the fillet apart.

Each of these tools streamlines the prep and bake process, making your kitchen experience smoother and more enjoyable.

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Ingredients for the Mediterranean Salmon Bake

• Salmon Fillets: The centerpiece of this dish. Opt for center-cut fillets with skin on to keep the fish juicy and tender while baking.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These roast beautifully, releasing sweet, tangy juices that blend into the sauce.
• Kalamata Olives: Briny and rich, they bring bold Mediterranean depth.
• Capers: Small but mighty, they add a tangy punch that balances the richness of the salmon.
• Red Onion: When roasted, red onions become sweet and mellow, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Fresh Garlic: Sliced or minced, it infuses the dish with a savory aroma.
• Fresh Parsley and Basil: Adds a burst of color and freshness just before serving.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled on top for a creamy, salty contrast that pairs perfectly with the salmon.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The base of the marinade and essential for roasting—it binds everything together.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Provides a bright, citrusy kick that lifts the flavor profile.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasoning to bring all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Mediterranean Salmon Bake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line a large baking dish with parchment paper or lightly oil it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Place salmon fillets in the baking dish, skin-side down. Surround them with halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, olives, and capers. Drizzle the olive oil mixture evenly over everything.

Step 4: Top with Feta

Sprinkle crumbled feta over the entire dish. This will bake into a golden, tangy crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra caramelization.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Remove from oven, garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges, and serve hot.

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How to Serve and Store Mediterranean Salmon Bake

Serve your Mediterranean Salmon Bake fresh from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped herbs and a few extra lemon wedges for a finishing touch. It pairs beautifully with couscous, orzo, or a side of roasted potatoes. For a lighter meal, serve it over a crisp arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven until just heated through, or microwave gently in 30-second bursts. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the salmon’s tenderness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Your salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh turns opaque. A meat thermometer should read 145°F at the thickest part.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes! Just thaw them completely in the fridge overnight and pat dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.

What vegetables can I swap in?

You can substitute or add bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts. Just ensure they’re chopped small enough to cook evenly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and can be stored in portioned containers alongside grains or greens for a balanced meal.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Of course! Just omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Does the skin need to be removed before baking?

Not at all. Baking the salmon with the skin on helps lock in moisture. You can easily remove it after cooking if preferred.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Mediterranean Flair?

If this Mediterranean Salmon Bake made your taste buds dance, you’ll probably love these other savory dishes:

• Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce for a fresh twist on white fish.
• One-Pan Garlic Herb Chicken with Potatoes & Green Beans for a hearty, balanced dinner.
• Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a flavor-packed wrap-worthy protein.
• Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread to serve alongside all your Mediterranean mains.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the capers? Did you use dill instead of parsley?

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