If you’re craving a vibrant dinner that bursts with Mediterranean charm, this Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. Combining tender, flaky salmon with tangy feta cheese and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, it brings together flavors and textures in perfect harmony. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that feels luxurious and comforting all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in bringing out bright, fresh flavors while maintaining a balance of creamy, savory, and tangy notes that make this bake irresistible.
- 4 Salmon Fillets (skin-on): The centerpiece that stays moist and flavorful when baked.
- Kosher Salt: Vital for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the salmon and veggies.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick that wakes up each bite.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Gives richness and helps seal in moisture during baking.
- Juice of 2 Lemons: Provides fresh acidity and brightens the overall dish.
- 1 Clove Garlic (minced): Offers an aromatic depth that complements the Mediterranean herbs perfectly.
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano: Imparts a signature Mediterranean herbal note that ties everything together.
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes: Brings just the right touch of heat without overpowering.
- 1 cup Cubed Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast that melts slightly when baked.
- 1 cup Quartered or Halved Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with juiciness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup Sliced Kalamata Olives: Offers a briny pop that beautifully balances the creaminess of feta.
- 1/4 cup Chopped Persian Cucumbers: Provides refreshing crunch and subtle freshness.
- 1/4 cup Chopped Red Onion: Gives a sharp, savory bite that enhances texture.
- 2 Tbsp Freshly Chopped Dill: Brings a fragrant herbal freshness that brightens the entire dish.
- Thinly Sliced Lemon (for baking): Releases citrus aroma and adds a pretty finishing touch when baked atop the salmon.
How to Make Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right for cooking the salmon evenly, sealing in moisture, and allowing the toppings to warm and meld without over-drying the fish. A well-preheated oven ensures the perfect bake every time.
Step 2: Prepare the Feta and Veggies Topping
In a medium bowl, gently combine the cubed feta, quartered tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, chopped cucumbers, red onion, fresh dill, and half the lemon juice. Stir just enough to mix the flavors while maintaining the integrity of each ingredient. This colorful mixture is what gives the dish its signature fresh and tangy personality.
Step 3: Season and Arrange the Salmon Fillets
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle the fillets with extra-virgin olive oil, then sprinkle kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes evenly over each piece. Layer thin lemon slices on top, then generously spoon the feta and veggie mixture over each fillet, ensuring a beautiful, textured topping.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for around 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The feta softens and melds with the veggies, creating a delightful crust that pairs so perfectly with the tender fish beneath.
Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
Once out of the oven, sprinkle a bit more freshly chopped dill over the top for an extra burst of herbaceous freshness. The lemon slices will have softened and infused the fish with their bright aroma, making every bite a vibrant experience.
How to Serve Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh dill and a wedge of lemon on the side adds brightness and makes the presentation pop. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil just before serving can also add a silky richness that enhances every bite.
Side Dishes
This Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous, quinoa, or a simple side of steamed green beans or roasted potatoes. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the meal perfectly and keeps the Mediterranean theme alive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the bake right from the sheet pan or transfer each fillet to individual plates, arranging extra feta and veggie topping artistically around the salmon. Using a colorful serving platter or rustic wooden board adds a charming touch, inviting guests to dig into the wholesome flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the topping and salmon together maintains flavor, but if you prefer, store the topping separately to preserve its texture.
Freezing
While salmon freezes well, the fresh veggies and feta topping don’t hold up as nicely. You can freeze the cooked salmon fillets alone tightly wrapped for up to two months, then add fresh toppings when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or use a microwave on medium power to avoid drying the salmon out. Adding a fresh squeeze of lemon juice after reheating revitalizes the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking and best texture.
What can I substitute for feta if I don’t have any?
Goat cheese makes a great substitute, offering a similar tang and creaminess that complements the vibrant veggies and salmon.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a more pronounced heat.
Can I prepare this recipe without olives?
Of course, if you’re not a fan of olives, omit them or replace with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy twist.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should look opaque but still moist and tender inside.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels both like a treat and a simple, nourishing meal you can enjoy any night of the week. I hope you give it a try soon — it might just become your go-to for vibrant, wholesome dinners that never fail to impress!
Print
Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Greek Salmon Bake with Feta and Fresh Veggies is a quick, vibrant, and healthy meal perfect for any night of the week. Salmon fillets are seasoned with garlic, oregano, and lemon, then baked with a flavorful topping of creamy feta, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, crunchy cucumbers, and fresh dill. The combination of tangy, fresh, and savory ingredients creates a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that is both nutritious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasonings
- 4 fillets Salmon Fillets (skin-on for moisture)
- Kosher Salt
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- Juice of 2 lemons (divided)
- Thinly Sliced Lemon (for baking)
Topping
- 1 cup Cubed Feta Cheese
- 1 cup Quartered Tomatoes or Halved Cherry Tomatoes
- 1/4 cup Sliced Kalamata Olives
- 1/4 cup Chopped Persian Cucumbers
- 1/4 cup Chopped Red Onion
- 2 Tbsp Freshly Chopped Dill
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and moisture retention.
- Prepare the Topping: In a mixing bowl, gently combine the cubed feta, quartered tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped cucumbers, red onion, fresh dill, and half of the lemon juice. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season and Arrange Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and season generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Lay thin lemon slices over each fillet, then spoon the prepared feta and vegetable mixture on top.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with additional fresh dill for an extra burst of fresh flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use skin-on salmon fillets to help keep the fish moist while baking.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Substitute goat cheese for feta if a creamier texture is desired.
- For a lighter oil option, avocado oil can be used instead of olive oil.
- Ensure salmon reaches 145°F (63°C) internally for safe consumption.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a Greek salad for a complete meal.
