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Fresh Mediterranean Salmon

Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this one-pan Mediterranean salmon is easy to make, full of nutrition, and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for depth)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Mediterranean Sauce:

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons capers (optional, for a briny kick)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup kalamata olives, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (for balance)

For Garnish:

  • Extra fresh parsley or basil
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon

  1. Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, cumin, lemon juice, and zest.
  3. Rub the mixture over both sides of the salmon fillets.
  4. Let the salmon marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

2. Make the Mediterranean Sauce

  1. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add cherry tomatoes, capers, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften.
  4. Stir in kalamata olives, balsamic vinegar, and fresh parsley.
  5. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Salmon

Pan-Seared Method (Crispy)

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy.
  3. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until salmon is cooked through.

Baked Method (Easy & Hands-Off)

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place salmon in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes.
  3. Broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden finish.

4. Serve & Enjoy

  1. Spoon the Mediterranean sauce over the salmon.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
  3. Serve hot with rice, couscous, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Best Sides to Serve with Mediterranean Salmon

  • Lemon Herb Rice – A perfect pairing for soaking up the sauce.
  • Greek Salad – Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives add freshness.
  • Garlic Roasted Potatoes – A hearty and flavorful side.
  • Warm Pita Bread & Hummus – For a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
  • Grilled Asparagus or Zucchini – Adds a smoky veggie touch.
  • Author: niold.com