There is something truly magical about the Mediterranean Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Recipe—a dish that effortlessly brings together bright, fresh flavors and comforting textures in one vibrant plate. Imagine tender, flaky salmon infused with the tang of sumac and accompanied by colorful roasted peppers, sweet tomatoes, and creamy crumbles of feta cheese. Each bite delivers a beautiful balance of smoky, savory, and herbaceous notes, making this recipe an absolute favorite to share with friends and family on any occasion. This is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Mediterranean goodness that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for a dinner party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a dish bursting with Mediterranean charm. Each one plays a vital role—from the luscious salmon that provides rich protein, to the bright bell peppers and grape tomatoes that add vibrant color and sweetness, all finished with crumbly feta for a salty, creamy punch.
- Salmon (4 pieces, 6 ounces each): Pick fresh, skin-on filets for moist, flavorful results and perfect portion control.
- Orange and red bell peppers (1 each, deseeded and sliced): They add a sweet crunch and gorgeous bursts of color to the plate.
- Shallots (2, thinly sliced): Their mild onion flavor melts into the roasted vegetables for depth without overpowering.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes (1 1/2 pounds): These little gems roast down beautifully, concentrating their natural sweetness.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): The heart of Mediterranean cooking, it brings moisture and a silky richness to everything.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning each component perfectly and bringing out the flavors.
- Ground sumac (1/2 teaspoon): This tangy, lemony spice lifts the dish with a unique Mediterranean twist.
- Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of warmth and spice.
- Crumbly feta cheese (2 ounces): The salty, creamy texture provides a delightful contrast to the roasted vegetables and salmon.
- Fresh dill (2 tablespoons, chopped): Sprinkled at the end, dill adds a fresh, fragrant finish that brightens the entire dish.
How to Make Mediterranean Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat level is perfect—it allows the vegetables to roast to caramelized perfection while cooking the salmon quickly so it stays tender and juicy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the fish from sticking.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon filets on the lined baking sheet and gently pat them dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick better. Drizzle half of the olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle with kosher salt, sumac, and black pepper. Each piece should get an even coating to infuse the fish with bold Mediterranean flavor.
Step 3: Toss the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced orange and red bell peppers, shallots, and grape tomatoes. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and add salt, sumac, and black pepper. Toss everything gently until every slice and tomato is coated evenly, ensuring that the veggies will roast beautifully and taste incredible alongside the salmon.
Step 4: Arrange the Vegetables Around the Salmon
Spread the tossed vegetables evenly around the salmon pieces on the baking sheet. Don’t pile them on top; keeping the vegetables around the fish lets everything roast evenly and develop those wonderful caramelized edges and roasted sweetness.
Step 5: Add the Feta Cheese
Sprinkle the crumbly feta cheese over both the salmon and the surrounding vegetables. The feta will lightly melt and infuse the dish with its signature tangy creaminess, perfectly complementing the earthy sumac and roasted veggies.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and flakes easily with a fork. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized at this point, creating a delightful contrast in texture with the tender fish.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Dill and Serve
Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh dill generously over the salmon and vegetables. This final aromatic touch adds a burst of vibrant green color and a fresh herbal note that brings the whole Mediterranean Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Recipe together.
How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish even further, consider garnishing with a wedge of lemon for a bright squeeze of citrus just before serving. A few additional sprigs of fresh dill or a handful of chopped parsley also add a beautiful fresh look and a subtle flavor boost that complements the dish’s Mediterranean roots perfectly.
Side Dishes
This salmon and vegetable combo stands out on its own, but you can add some fluffy couscous, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. A side of quinoa or a light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would also pair wonderfully, rounding out the meal with added texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salmon filets on a large platter surrounded by the roasted vegetables and topped with crumbled feta and fresh herbs. Alternatively, plate each portion individually over a bed of sautéed spinach or arugula to add a peppery element. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil or a light balsamic reduction for elegance and flavor depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to two days. The salmon and roasted vegetables retain their flavor well, making for a satisfying and quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
While salmon can be frozen, we recommend freezing it prior to cooking for optimal texture. Once cooked, freezing the entire dish may affect the texture of the roasted vegetables and feta. If you want to freeze leftovers, place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within one month for best taste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a low oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit or in a microwave set to medium power. Avoid overheating to keep the salmon moist and prevent the feta from drying out. Adding a small drizzle of olive oil before reheating can help preserve moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning. This ensures even cooking and helps the seasoning stick better.
What if I don’t have sumac? What can I substitute?
If sumac is unavailable, a mix of lemon zest and a pinch of paprika can provide a similar tangy, slightly smoky flavor. However, sumac is worth seeking out for its unique contribution.
Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Feta’s salty and crumbly texture is key to this recipe, but you could substitute with goat cheese or ricotta salata for a creamy yet tangy alternative. Avoid cheeses that melt fully, as they won’t provide the same texture contrast.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Mediterranean Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Recipe holds up well when chilled and reheated, making it a fantastic option for easy and flavorful meal prep.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, unoaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the zesty, herbal flavors in this dish, complementing the salmon without overpowering it.
Final Thoughts
Give this Mediterranean Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Recipe a try—you’re in for a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The blend of fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and perfectly seasoned salmon creates a comforting, vibrant dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe brings a little sunshine and a lot of flavor to your table. Enjoy every bite!
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Mediterranean Salmon with Roasted Vegetables and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mediterranean Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets baked with colorful bell peppers, shallots, and cherry tomatoes, all seasoned with sumac and topped with crumbly feta cheese and fresh dill. It’s a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 (6 ounces each) salmon pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground sumac, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
Vegetables
- 1 orange bell pepper, deseeded and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 pounds cherry or grape tomatoes
Toppings
- 2 ounces crumbly feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the salmon and vegetables.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, pat them dry to remove excess moisture, then brush or drizzle half of the olive oil over the salmon. Season the fillets evenly with half of the kosher salt, ground sumac, and black pepper.
- Toss the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced orange and red bell peppers, thinly sliced shallots, and cherry or grape tomatoes. Add the remaining olive oil, salt, sumac, and black pepper, and toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly with the seasoning and oil.
- Arrange Vegetables and Add Feta: Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly around the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the crumbly feta cheese evenly over both the salmon and the vegetables to add a creamy, tangy flavor.
- Bake Until Cooked: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) and is opaque and flaky. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add Fresh Dill: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh dill evenly over the salmon and vegetables for a bright, herby finish.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Mediterranean salmon and roasted vegetables promptly while warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or dried dill depending on availability, but fresh dill gives a brighter flavor.
- Sumac adds a lemony tang; if unavailable, you can substitute with lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice added before serving.
- To ensure even cooking, use salmon fillets of similar thickness.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of couscous or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
