Mediterranean Salmon Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salmon dish is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s packed with protein, rich in omega-3s, and loaded with Mediterranean flavors that are light yet deeply satisfying. Everything bakes on one sheet pan, making cleanup easy. With its gorgeous presentation, it’s a dish you can serve for a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs salmon filet, skin on

• 1 lemon, sliced thin

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

• 3 cups cherry tomatoes, multi-colored, halved

• 1 tbsp capers

• 1/2 red onion, sliced thin

• 2 garlic cloves, sliced thin

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1/2 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1/2 tsp dried)

• 1/2 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Fresh ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.

2. Season the salmon: rub a pinch of salt and pepper onto the skin side, then place skin-side down on the sheet. Season the flesh side with another pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Prepare the vegetables: halve the tomatoes, slice the lemon, onion, and garlic, and rinse the capers.

4. Arrange the lemon slices on top of and around the salmon. Scatter the tomatoes, olives, garlic, and half the onion around the fish. Sprinkle the remaining onion and capers over the salmon.

5. Add the rosemary, oregano, and thyme evenly across the pan. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.

6. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on thickness.

7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use halibut, trout, or cod in place of salmon.

• Add artichoke hearts or bell peppers for more Mediterranean flair.

• Swap fresh herbs for dried if needed—just use smaller amounts.

• For extra brightness, finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the salmon. You can also enjoy leftovers chilled over a salad.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin before cooking?

No, keeping the skin on helps retain moisture, and it peels off easily after baking if you prefer not to eat it.

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and herbs ahead, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.

What side dishes go well with Mediterranean salmon?

Try couscous, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad.

Can I make this dish without olives?

Yes, simply omit them or replace with sun-dried tomatoes or capers for a similar salty punch.

How can I make the salmon more flavorful?

Marinate the fish in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before baking.

Can I cook this on the grill instead of the oven?

Yes, wrap the salmon and vegetables in foil packets and grill over medium heat for about 20 minutes.

Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs, high in protein, and full of heart-healthy fats, making it suitable for diabetic diets.

What wine pairs best with Mediterranean salmon?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the fresh, herby flavors.

Conclusion

Mediterranean salmon is a simple yet stunning sheet-pan dish that brings together wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. With juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and fragrant herbs, it transforms an everyday meal into a colorful feast. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe proves that healthy can also be delicious and elegant.