Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

This Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes is a mouthwatering dish that beautifully blends rich flavors with healthy ingredients. Perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings, this recipe offers a delightful escape to the Mediterranean coast. The combination of feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes not only enhances the taste but also makes this meal visually appealing and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish can be made in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs creates a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will impress your taste buds.
• Healthy Meal Option: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and nutrients from vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with a side salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal tailored to your preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it perfect for serving guests at dinner parties or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Mediterranean Baked Salmon, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and proper heat distribution for your salmon.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without mess.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are vital for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your dish.
• Aluminum foil: Covering the dish while baking keeps moisture in, resulting in tender and juicy salmon.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 fillets (6 oz each) salmon

For the Topping

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 6 oz)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced (optional)

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

To Taste

• Salt and pepper

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare it for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives (if using), olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Arrange the Salmon Fillets

1. Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish with skin-side down.
2. Season each fillet with more salt and pepper as desired.

Step 4: Add Topping

Spoon the prepared topping mixture evenly over each salmon fillet to ensure every bite is full of flavor.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil:
1. This helps keep the salmon moist as it bakes.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Baking Without Foil

After 15 minutes:
1. Remove the foil from the baking dish.
2. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from oven:
1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
2. Enjoy your Mediterranean Baked Salmon warm!

How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

Serving Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing mix.
• Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with cherry tomatoes, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette for a peppery contrast to the salmon.

Complement with Grains

• Quinoa: Cooked quinoa provides a nutty flavor and is a great source of protein that pairs well with the dish.
• Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for an easy and flavorful side.

Add Some Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, season with salt, and roast until tender for a simple yet elegant side.
• Grilled Zucchini: Slice zucchini, season, and grill until charred for a smoky addition to your plate.

Finish Off with Bread

• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread can be used to scoop up any remaining feta mixture or simply enjoyed alongside the salmon.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

To achieve the best results with your Mediterranean Baked Salmon, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t hold back on seasoning the salmon fillets. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh sun-dried tomatoes and high-quality feta cheese for a more vibrant taste in every bite.
• Proper baking time: Ensure you bake the salmon just until it flakes easily. Overcooking can dry it out.
• Cover while baking: Covering the dish with foil initially helps retain moisture during baking. Remove it towards the end to get a nice golden top.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

Pairing side dishes with your Mediterranean Baked Salmon can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary provide a hearty balance to the light salmon dish.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while being easy to prepare—just steam until tender.
3. Mediterranean Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf mixed with herbs, nuts, and dried fruits can bring out the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
4. Cauliflower Mash: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish is made by steaming cauliflower and blending it until smooth.
5. Grilled Bell Peppers: Sweet bell peppers grilled until tender add vibrant color and sweetness to complement the savory salmon.
6. Lemon Herb Couscous: Lightly seasoned couscous flavored with lemon zest brings freshness that pairs perfectly with the baked salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the salmon retain moisture.
• Using too much salt: Remember that feta cheese can be salty. Use salt sparingly when seasoning the salmon to avoid an overly salty dish.
• Overbaking the salmon: Be careful not to overbake your salmon. It should flake easily with a fork but remain moist. Keep an eye on the time!
• Skipping the foil: Covering the baking dish with foil during part of the cooking process helps keep the salmon moist. Don’t skip this step!
• Forgetting to garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds freshness and color to your dish. Always remember this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! While salmon is delicious, you can substitute it with other fish like trout or tilapia for a different flavor.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the feta and sun-dried tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding other vegetables or using different herbs. We encourage you to try making this healthy dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!