Mediterranean Salmon Bake
A vibrant, healthy Mediterranean Salmon Bake featuring tender salmon fillets baked with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, garlic, and aromatic seasonings. This easy one-pan dish balances rich omega-3 protein with colorful vegetables and bright lemon accents for a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Salmon and Vegetables
- 4 fresh salmon fillets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra for garnish)
Oils and Others
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice the cherry tomatoes in halves, thinly slice the red onion, mince the garlic, and finely chop the fresh herbs.
- Assemble the Bake: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil on the bottom of a large baking dish. Lay the salmon fillets spaced evenly in the dish. Scatter cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, sliced red onion, minced garlic, and capers (if using) around the salmon. Sprinkle chopped rosemary, oregano, and parsley over the entire dish. Season with sea salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Drizzle another touch of olive oil on top to help everything roast beautifully.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon. The fish should be opaque and flaky when tested with a fork, and the vegetables tender and slightly caramelized.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and add an extra squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Choose fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overbake the salmon; check around 15 minutes to keep it tender and moist.
- Use quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and health benefits.
- Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after baking to lock in juices.
- Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even heat distribution and to prevent sticking.
- Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a crispier top crust, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with vegetables
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: salmon bake, Mediterranean salmon, healthy dinner, one-pan meal, baked salmon, omega-3 recipe, gluten free, easy dinner