Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes is a fantastic dish that brings together the rich tastes of feta and sun-dried tomatoes. This meal is perfect for various occasions, from a weeknight dinner to a special gathering. Its combination of flavors and health benefits make it truly stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this flavorful dish on busy nights.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and antioxidants from sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe supports a healthy diet.
• Versatile Flavors: The blend of feta, olives, and herbs creates a Mediterranean taste that appeals to many palates.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks stunning when served, making it great for entertaining guests.
• Easy Clean-Up: Baking in one dish means minimal mess to clean up afterward.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes successfully, gather your essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure a delicious outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and makes for an impressive serving vessel.
• Mixing bowl: Having a sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients effectively without spills.
• Aluminum foil: Covering the dish with foil retains moisture, keeping the salmon tender while baking.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes, you’ll need the following 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)

Other Ingredients

• 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).

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 combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

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

Step 4: Add the Topping

Spoon the feta and sun-dried tomato mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to maintain moisture during cooking.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an added touch of flavor and color.

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

Serving Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.

Serve with Quinoa

• Fluffy quinoa adds a nutty flavor and provides a healthy grain option that balances the meal.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add vibrant colors and nutrients to your plate.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh herbs like basil or dill brings a burst of freshness that brightens the dish beautifully.

Drizzle with Lemon Juice

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors and adds a zesty kick that pairs exceptionally well with salmon.

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

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your Mediterranean Baked Salmon is a hit every time.

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Select high-quality salmon fillets for the best taste and texture. Fresh fish will yield a more flavorful result.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Salmon is perfect when it flakes easily but remains moist.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to add other ingredients like capers or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Good Quality Feta: Opt for creamy, rich feta cheese as it melts beautifully over the salmon, adding depth to each bite.

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

Selecting the right side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options that pair wonderfully with Mediterranean Baked Salmon.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting complement to the salmon’s richness.
2. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli steamed lightly retains its crunch and adds nutritional value without overpowering flavors.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection bring a smoky note that enhances the overall meal.
5. Mediterranean Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf cooked with herbs and toasted nuts creates a delightful textural element.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a subtle sweetness that balances salty feta perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on fresh salmon, quality feta, and good sun-dried tomatoes. Opt for fresh or high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon can dry out if overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for flakiness to ensure the salmon remains moist.
• Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key in enhancing flavors. Don’t skip salt and pepper; they bring balance to the rich feta and tomatoes.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a preheated oven is crucial for even cooking. Make sure your oven reaches 400°F (200°C) before placing the salmon inside.
• Skipping the foil cover: Covering the baking dish with foil helps retain moisture in the salmon. Remember to remove it halfway through cooking for a nice finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; use within 2 months.

Reheating Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and reheat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

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 with trout or sea bass for similar results.

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

Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal that balances flavors and nutrients.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

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

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, artichokes, or different herbs like dill or basil to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Baked Salmon With Feta & Sun-dried Tomatoes is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!