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Irresistible Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta and Olives

Mediterranean baked salmon with feta and olives - featured image

A quick and easy Mediterranean baked salmon recipe featuring feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh herbs, perfect for healthy weeknight dinners with bold flavors and minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each; skin-on or skinless based on preference)
  • 1/2 cup (75 grams) crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/3 cup (50 grams) Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup (150 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
  • 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, halved Kalamata olives, minced garlic, chopped fresh oregano, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in a medium-sized oven-safe baking dish. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the fillets.
  5. Top each fillet generously with the feta and olive mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over everything.
  6. Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout. The feta should be slightly golden and bubbly, and the tomatoes softened.
  7. Remove from oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
  8. Serve immediately with your favorite side such as couscous, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Notes

If the feta mixture dries out too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the first 8 minutes of baking, then uncover to finish and brown the topping. Let salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking for even cooking. Avoid overcooking to keep salmon moist and tender. You can swap Kalamata olives for green olives or capers. For dairy-free, omit feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean baked salmon, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, healthy dinner, easy salmon recipe, baked fish, weeknight dinner, seafood, gluten-free