The Baked Greek Salmon is a celebration of Mediterranean simplicity and flavor. Each fillet is infused with lemon juice, garlic, dill, and olive oil—aromas that transport you to a seaside Greek village. Juicy cherry tomatoes roast alongside the salmon, soaking up the herby marinade and bursting with sweet flavor.
Finished with crumbled feta cheese and fresh lemon slices, this dish is both hearty and light, rich in healthy fats and protein. It pairs beautifully with rice pilaf or a fresh Greek salad and makes an easy yet impressive dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this sheet pan salmon is a no-fail favorite that looks as stunning as it tastes.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 salmon fillets (approx. 6 oz. each)
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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Juice of 1 lemon
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
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1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Lemon slices, for garnish
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Feta cheese, crumbled, for garnish
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Kalamata olives (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
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Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking pan.
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Scatter cherry tomatoes around the salmon on the pan.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Brush or pour the marinade generously over the salmon fillets and tomatoes.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and tomatoes are slightly charred.
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Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 5 minutes.
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Garnish with lemon slices, crumbled feta cheese, and Kalamata olives before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes | Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Kcal: 345 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Health Benefits of Salmon and Mediterranean Ingredients
Salmon is often referred to as a nutritional powerhouse, and for good reason. It’s rich in high-quality protein, essential omega-3 fatty acids, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including B12, D, selenium, and potassium. Omega-3s, in particular, are vital for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health.
The Mediterranean diet emphasizes ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs—all of which play important roles in this recipe. Olive oil is a source of monounsaturated fat that can help lower bad cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health. Garlic not only brings flavor but also offers antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. Dill and oregano are packed with antioxidants and add layers of depth to the dish without the need for excessive salt or fat.
Pairing salmon with cherry tomatoes introduces natural sweetness and additional nutrients like vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for supporting skin health and reducing inflammation. And feta, though used sparingly, contributes calcium and a satisfying creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the flaky texture of baked salmon.
Perfect for Weeknights or Entertaining
One of the most appealing aspects of Baked Greek Salmon is how versatile it is in terms of occasion. Because it’s a sheet pan meal, it requires minimal cleanup and is ideal for weeknights when time is tight but you still want to enjoy a nourishing and delicious dinner. The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy schedules.
On the other hand, its colorful presentation and vibrant flavors make it elegant enough for entertaining. Served on a large platter with garnishes like lemon wedges, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta, this dish can anchor a dinner party menu just as easily as it can be enjoyed solo with a glass of white wine.
Customization and Pairing Options
Another reason this recipe is so beloved is its flexibility. While the core elements remain the same, there’s room to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Not a fan of dill? Swap it out for parsley or thyme. Want to add a bit of heat? A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade will do the trick.
This dish also welcomes variations in accompaniments. It pairs beautifully with a classic Greek salad, rice pilaf, or even orzo tossed in lemon and olive oil. For a low-carb alternative, serve it with cauliflower rice or grilled zucchini. A side of warm pita or crusty sourdough bread can round out the meal, soaking up the delicious juices from the roasted tomatoes and lemony marinade.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Salmon
Getting the most out of this recipe depends on a few key techniques. First, make sure to pat the salmon dry before baking. This simple step helps the skin (if left on) get a bit crispier and ensures better browning. Second, use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure about doneness—salmon is best when it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare or up to 145°F (63°C) for well-done.
Don’t skip the resting period after baking. Allowing the salmon to sit for a few minutes helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. When adding the finishing touches, such as crumbled feta or fresh lemon slices, do so just before serving to preserve their texture and visual appeal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this dish keeps well in the fridge and makes a fantastic lunch the next day. Store the salmon and tomatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a covered skillet over low heat or use the microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out the fish.
Alternatively, the leftover salmon can be flaked into a salad or tucked into a pita wrap with greens and a drizzle of tzatziki for a Mediterranean-style sandwich. Its bold flavors hold up well in cold applications, making it one of those rare meals that taste just as good the next day.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The beauty of this baked Greek salmon lies in its harmony of flavors and simplicity of preparation. The acidic brightness from lemon balances the richness of the salmon. Herbs like dill and oregano provide freshness and fragrance, while garlic gives depth and punch. Tomatoes roast to sweet perfection, and feta offers that classic creamy, tangy Greek note that ties it all together.
It’s a dish that manages to feel both rustic and refined. By using a few quality ingredients and handling them with care, you get a meal that’s greater than the sum of its parts. And with its one-pan convenience, it respects both your time and your taste buds.
A Touch of Greece in Every Bite
Whether you’ve traveled to the Greek Isles or dream of doing so, this salmon recipe brings a little piece of the Aegean Sea to your kitchen. It’s a dish steeped in tradition but adaptable to modern tastes and schedules. Every bite tells a story of sunshine, sea breezes, and meals shared with loved ones.
Serve it alfresco on a summer evening or enjoy it cozy indoors on a chilly night—the flavors are timeless and always in season.
Conclusion
Baked Greek Salmon is everything a great recipe should be—flavorful, nutritious, quick to make, and endlessly versatile. It highlights the heart-healthy ingredients of the Mediterranean diet while offering a satisfying and elegant dinner solution for any night of the week.
Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to a wholesome meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Its vibrant presentation, zesty flavor, and nourishing profile make it one you’ll want to revisit again and again. So preheat the oven, grab your herbs, and let the fresh, bold flavors of Greece shine on your dinner table.