Mediterranean Greek Salmon Recipe
This Mediterranean-style salmon is fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. Juicy salmon fillets are paired with colorful vegetables, briny olives, and bright lemon, finished with crumbled feta and fresh herbs. It’s an easy, healthy meal that works for weeknights or entertaining, offering the classic flavors of Greece with minimal effort.
Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 2–4
Ingredients
For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
1–2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tsp red wine vinegar or 1 tsp Dijon mustard for extra flavor
Vegetables & Fresh Elements
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced or chopped
1 lemon (sliced and/or juiced)
Optional: ½ cucumber, diced; 1 small zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; or a few asparagus spears
Garnish & Cheese
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat Oven or Prepare Pan
Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil.
Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional vinegar or mustard.
Brush or drizzle over salmon fillets and let sit for 5–10 minutes.
Cook the Salmon
Oven Method: Place salmon on a lined baking sheet, skin-side down if applicable. Arrange tomatoes, olives, and onion around salmon. Bake 12–15 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Stovetop Method: Sear salmon skin-side down for 4–5 minutes, flip, and cook 3–4 more minutes until cooked through. Add vegetables to the pan for the last 3–4 minutes of cooking.
Add Lemon & Cheese
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over salmon and vegetables.
Sprinkle with crumbled feta and chopped dill or parsley.
Serve
Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Tips & Variations
Cooking Method:
Oven-baking gives a hands-off, evenly cooked salmon.
Pan-searing produces a crispy exterior. You can also grill salmon for a smoky flavor.
Vegetable Options:
Add zucchini, asparagus, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Roasting vegetables with the salmon enhances their sweetness.
Herbs & Flavor:
Fresh dill is classic, but parsley, basil, or thyme work well too.
For a citrusy twist, add a few lemon slices directly on top of salmon while cooking.
Cheese Alternatives:
Crumbled feta adds tangy richness, but goat cheese or halloumi cubes can also complement the dish.
Marinade Variations:
Mix olive oil with red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, or a little honey for a sweet-and-tangy glaze.
Sprinkle smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle heat.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve over a grain base like quinoa, couscous, or rice.
Pair with a Greek salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables for a complete meal.
Make Ahead:
Prepare the marinade and chop vegetables in advance. Assemble and cook just before serving for freshness.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture and ensure proper cooking.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A: The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the marinade and chop the vegetables in advance, but cook the salmon just before serving for best texture and flavor.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: It pairs well with grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous, roasted or steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Q: Can I adjust the spice or herbs?
A: Yes. Add red pepper flakes for heat or substitute oregano with thyme, basil, or a combination of Mediterranean herbs.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx. 1 salmon fillet with vegetables and feta)
Calories: ~380
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: ~480mg
(Values vary depending on portion sizes, amount of olive oil, and feta used.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Greek Salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish that balances rich, tender salmon with bright, briny, and fresh Mediterranean ingredients. The combination of olives, tomatoes, feta, and herbs delivers a satisfying, healthy, and visually appealing meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and captures the essence of Greek cuisine in every bite.