This Easy Mediterranean Salmon is a light and tasty dish that shines with fresh herbs like parsley and dill. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that feels special!
You only need a few ingredients to make it shine—plus, your kitchen will smell amazing! I love serving it with a side of veggies for a colorful meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star of this dish. If you can’t find salmon, try substituting with trout or even chicken breast for a different protein. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor, but you can use regular olive oil or avocado oil if that’s what you have. Both are great options for drizzling or sautéing.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill provide freshness. If you’re out of fresh herbs, you could use dried herbs instead—1 teaspoon of each should do. However, fresh truly enhances the dish!
Lemon: The lemon adds brightness to the fish. If you don’t have a lemon, lime or even a splash of vinegar can offer a tart flavor instead.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the salmon just right is key, and here’s how to do it. You’ll want it moist and flaking easily but not dry.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Bake for 12-15 minutes depending on thickness.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork; if it flakes easily and is opaque in color, it’s ready.
- If you’re unsure, a food thermometer reading 145°F (63°C) means it’s perfectly cooked.
Remember, salmon will continue to cook slightly after removing it from the oven, so don’t leave it too long!
Easy Mediterranean Salmon with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Optional garnish: lemon wedges and extra fresh herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish is quick to prep, taking about 10 minutes, and then you’ll bake it for 12-15 minutes. In total, you should expect to spend around 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for getting that salmon nice and flaky. While it’s heating up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Up the Flavor:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy! Stir everything together until well mixed. This delicious mixture is what will make your salmon pop with flavor.
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if your salmon has skin. Then, with a brush or a spoon, generously coat the top of each fillet with the flavorful olive oil and herb mixture.
4. Add a Citrus Touch:
Now it’s time to lay those lovely lemon slices right on top of each salmon fillet. This adds a fresh zing that complements the herbs beautifully.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know the salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque in color. Enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!
6. Rest and Garnish:
When the salmon is done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices settle, making each bite more flavorful. If you like, sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top and serve with lemon wedges for an added touch.
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Mediterranean salmon! Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Salmon with Fresh Herbs
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Fillets?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge, or place the fillets in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour. Pat them dry before seasoning.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No problem! You can substitute with dried herbs. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and dill each, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. While fresh herbs provide a better flavor, dried herbs will still work in a pinch!
Can This Dish Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the herb mixture and season the salmon fillets a few hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just bring it back to room temperature before popping it in the oven for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave on low power to avoid drying it out. Enjoy the flavors again!
