This Oven Greek Salmon is a treat! It’s made with fresh salmon fillets, zesty lemon, and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s both healthy and flavorful, perfect for a quick dinner.
What I love most is how simple it is to make. Just season your salmon, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. You’ll feel like a chef—without the fuss! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here. You can also use skin-on fillets if you prefer. If salmon isn’t available, trout or even chicken breasts can be a suitable substitute—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Kalamata olives: These bring a briny richness to the dish. If you can’t find them, green olives will work, too. Just make sure they’re pitted for easy eating.
Feta cheese: Feta adds a salty, creamy element. If you’re avoiding dairy, you could try a dairy-free feta or simply skip it. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can mimic some cheesy flavor.
Cucumbers: Roasted cucumbers give a wonderful texture. If you want crunch without cooking, you could substitute with bell peppers for a different taste.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your salmon just right is vital! Make sure to check for doneness carefully. Salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should flake easily with a fork. If you’re unsure, you can cut into the thickest part to make sure it’s opaque.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; 15-18 minutes usually does it, but ovens can vary.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite!
- For added flavor, you can baste the salmon with its juices halfway through cooking.
Oven Greek Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin removed, about 6 oz each)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Oven Greek Salmon takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 15-18 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps ensure your salmon cooks evenly and gets that nice texture we love.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Take a large baking dish and arrange the chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion wedges, and Kalamata olives evenly. This creates a beautiful base for your salmon and soaks up all those delicious flavors.
3. Make the Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, dill, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mix will season both the salmon and the veggies perfectly!
4. Place the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that lovely sear. Place them skin-side down on top of the vegetables in your baking dish.
5. Coat with Flavor:
Using a brush or spoon, generously coat the salmon and vegetables with the olive oil and herb mixture. Make sure everything is well-covered to maximize flavor!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon; it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
7. Add the Feta:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salmon and vegetables while they are still warm. This will melt just slightly, adding creaminess.
8. Garnish & Serve:
Finish it off by garnishing with fresh dill sprigs. Now, spoon some of those flavorful juices from the baking dish over the salmon and vegetables as you serve.
Enjoy this fresh, vibrant Oven Greek Salmon with your favorite sides, like rice or a light salad, for a delicious and nutritious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely beforehand. The best way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or quick-thaw it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before baking for optimal texture!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the vegetables and the marinade in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the dish just before you’re ready to bake. This can save time and make dinner even easier!
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.
What Are Good Sides to Serve with Oven Greek Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, quinoa, or rice to soak up the delicious juices. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and healthy meal!