This Mediterranean Salmon Bake is a colorful and tasty dish combining juicy salmon with fresh veggies like tomatoes, olives, and bell peppers. It’s all baked together for a burst of flavor!
You’ll love how easy this is to make—just mix, arrange, and pop it in the oven. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels fancy but is super simple! Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are perfect here. If you want a budget-friendly option, you can use frozen fillets; just make sure to thaw them properly. Alternatively, try other fish like cod or trout for a different taste.
Zucchini: This vegetable adds moisture and texture. If you don’t have zucchini, you can substitute with bell peppers or asparagus. Both will bring a nice crunch!
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness is a highlight in this recipe. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work well—just drain them first.
Cauliflower: It adds a nice bite and can be replaced with broccoli or even sweet potatoes for different flavors and textures. Both of these are tasty additions!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely flavor, but regular paprika is fine, too. If you don’t enjoy heat, skip the chili powder or replace it with a dash of lemon zest for brightness.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon perfectly can make all the difference. Here are a few tips:
- Check the salmon at 15 minutes. It should be opaque and flake easily when you poke it with a fork.
- A general rule is to cook fish for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness at 400°F. Adjust your time accordingly!
- If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer. Salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let it rest for a minute after taking it out—you’ll be amazed at how much moisture gets sealed in.
How to Make Mediterranean Salmon Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 small head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Seasoning:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Salmon Bake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick yet wholesome meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you put the salmon in, giving it that perfect cook!
2. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced zucchini, cauliflower florets, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add half of the minced garlic, a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano. Mix it all up until the veggies are coated evenly.
3. Arrange the Vegetables:
Spread your seasoned vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish. This forms a delicious bed for the salmon that will soak up all the flavors!
4. Prepare the Salmon:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if you’re using it), the remaining oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the salmon fillets, making sure they’re well coated. Then, drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the fillets.
5. Bake the Dish:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the vegetable bed in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining minced garlic over everything for a nice garlicky flavor. Bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the veggies are tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the dish out of the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve your Mediterranean Salmon Bake with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy this delightful and healthy meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is the star of this dish, you can easily substitute it with other fish such as trout, cod, or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets you choose.
Can I Prep This Dish the Night Before?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and season the salmon the night before. Store everything separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble it in the baking dish and follow the instructions to bake!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or place it back in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, making sure to add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Bell peppers, asparagus, or even baby spinach could be great additions. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
