Mediterranean Ultimate Herb-Crusted Salmon Plate with Crispy Potatoes & Fresh Cucumber Salad
This Mediterranean ultimate herb-crusted salmon plate is the kind of meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is completely achievable at home. It brings together three elements that balance each other perfectly: flaky salmon coated in fresh herbs and olive oil, golden crispy potatoes with soft centers, and a cool cucumber salad that brightens every bite. The flavors are clean, vibrant, and satisfying, built around classic Mediterranean ingredients rather than heavy sauces. This is the sort of plate you make when you want something nourishing, impressive, and deeply comforting without feeling heavy or complicated.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Herb-Crusted Salmon
4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each), skin on or off
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Zest of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, finely minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Crispy Potatoes
1½ lb (700 g) baby potatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Fresh Cucumber Salad
2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ small red onion, very thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh mint or dill, chopped
Salt to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and place a baking tray inside to heat.
In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Carefully spread potatoes on the hot tray in a single layer, cut side down.
Roast potatoes for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
While potatoes roast, mix olive oil, parsley, dill, thyme, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pat salmon dry and spread the herb mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
When potatoes are nearly done, push them to one side of the tray or use a second tray.
Place salmon in the oven and roast for 10 to 12 minutes until just cooked through.
Meanwhile, combine cucumber, red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and salt in a bowl.
Serve salmon with crispy potatoes and cucumber salad on one plate.
Tips for Best Results
Choose center-cut salmon fillets for even cooking.
Always pat salmon dry so the herb crust sticks well.
Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried can work in smaller amounts.
Heating the tray before adding potatoes helps them crisp faster.
Avoid overcrowding potatoes to prevent steaming.
Turn potatoes once, not repeatedly, for better browning.
Roast salmon just until it flakes easily to keep it moist.
Let salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Slice cucumbers thinly for a lighter, fresher salad.
Taste and adjust seasoning right before serving.
Variations
Use sweet potatoes instead of baby potatoes for a sweeter contrast.
Add crushed pistachios to the herb crust for crunch.
Swap dill for basil or cilantro for a different herb profile.
Add cherry tomatoes to the cucumber salad for color.
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a sharper finish.
Grill the salmon instead of roasting for smoky flavor.
Add a spoon of Greek yogurt to the salad for creaminess.
Season potatoes with rosemary instead of oregano.
Use trout or sea bass in place of salmon.
Finish salmon with a drizzle of tahini-lemon sauce.
Q&A
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the salad and herb mixture can be made a few hours ahead.
Do I need to remove salmon skin?
No, skin helps protect the fish and can be removed after cooking.
How do I know salmon is done?
It should flake easily and appear opaque.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Is this meal suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but keep salad separate until serving.
What oil works best?
Extra virgin olive oil adds the best Mediterranean flavor.
Can I air-fry the potatoes?
Yes, they crisp beautifully in an air fryer.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and balanced.
What bread pairs well with this plate?
Warm flatbread or crusty whole-grain bread.
Can I make it dairy-free?
The recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 540
Protein: 38g
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Omega-3s: High from salmon
Conclusion
Mediterranean ultimate herb-crusted salmon plate with crispy potatoes and fresh cucumber salad is a complete, well-balanced meal that delivers flavor, nutrition, and visual appeal. The tender salmon, crisp potatoes, and refreshing salad work together without competing, making every bite feel intentional and satisfying. It is ideal for weeknight dinners, relaxed entertaining, or anyone looking to enjoy Mediterranean-style eating in a practical, delicious way. Once you make this plate, it is likely to earn a regular place in your cooking rotation.