This Mediterranean salmon dish is quick and tasty! With juicy salmon fillets, colorful veggies, and zesty herbs, it’s a feast for the eyes and the belly.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up dinner with just one pan. Everything cooks together, saving time on washing up. Plus, it’s healthy and delicious—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for this dish. You can also try other fish like trout or cod if salmon isn’t available. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor and sweetness. If out of season, replace with canned diced tomatoes or grape tomatoes.
Kalamata Olives: Their briny taste enhances the dish. If you prefer less saltiness, you can use green olives or leave them out entirely.
Zucchini and Bell Pepper: Feel free to swap them with eggplant or asparagus based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge!
Feta Cheese: I love adding crumbled feta for its creaminess, but it’s optional. Goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative works too!
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the salmon just right is crucial. Here’s how to ensure it stays moist and flakes perfectly:
- Cook the salmon skin-side down for even heating and to keep it tender.
- Keep an eye on cooking time—around 15-18 minutes is ideal, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Test for doneness by gently pressing with a fork; it should flake easily when ready.
- If you like your salmon a bit crisp, you can broil it for the last few minutes!
This one-pan meal is not only quick but fun to make. Enjoy putting your twist on it, and don’t hesitate to play around with seasonal veggies!
Easy One-Pan Mediterranean Salmon in 30 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon and Vegetables:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy one-pan Mediterranean salmon meal will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-18 minutes to cook in the oven, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready when you are!
2. Prepare the Vegetables
In a large ovenproof skillet or a baking dish, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Now, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, minced garlic, and Kalamata olives. Sprinkle with dried oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a gentle toss to coat everything evenly with the oil and seasonings.
3. Add the Salmon
Next, place the salmon fillets on top of the vibrant veggie mix. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon and season with a pinch more salt and pepper. This will help to keep it moist and flavorful!
4. Lemon Up!
Now, it’s time to tuck the lemon slices around and on top of both the salmon and the veggies. The lemon adds a beautiful zesty flavor while cooking!
5. Roast in the Oven
Pop the skillet or dish into your preheated oven and let it roast for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the veggies are tender and colorful!
6. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you love cheese, feel free to add a sprinkle of crumbled feta on top. Serve warm with your favorite crusty bread or a side of choice.
Enjoy your flavorful, easy Mediterranean salmon dinner made all in one pan!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water. Cooking times may be slightly longer for thawed fillets, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables! Asparagus, broccoli, or even spinach are great options. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable you choose.
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Absolutely! You can prep everything a day in advance. Just store the seasoned veggies and salmon separately in the fridge, then assemble and cook them when you’re ready to eat. This dish also reheats well for lunches!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the salmon moist.
