This Oven Greek Salmon is a tasty dish packed with flavor. It combines fresh salmon with zesty herbs, lemon, and a touch of garlic, all baked to perfection!
I love how easy it is to make, and it makes my kitchen smell amazing! Pair it with some veggies or rice, and you’ve got a delicious meal that feels fancy but is super simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe, giving you a tender texture. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or tilapia. You can use frozen salmon, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a juicy sweetness. If you can’t find them, you can use diced regular tomatoes or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt or cashew cream works well. You can also use sour cream in a pinch!
Greek Seasoning: A mix of oregano, thyme, and basil works great if you don’t have pre-made Greek seasoning. You might also add a touch of lemon zest for extra zing!
How Do I Ensure the Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but it’s all about time and temperature. Follow these tips to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking.
- Bake the salmon uncovered for 15-18 minutes. Look for the salmon to flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven—this helps keep it juicy!
Oven Greek Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Dish:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, halved (plus extra lemon slices for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Greek seasoning or a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Yogurt Mixture:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
- Fresh oregano or fresh basil, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
For the Bed:
- Fresh spinach or baby greens (to line the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Oven Greek Salmon will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15-18 minutes to bake. In total, you should set aside around 30 minutes to get this lovely meal on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Create the Base:
Lay the thinly sliced red onions evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Next, add a layer of fresh spinach or baby greens on top, which will give a nice bed for your salmon to rest on.
3. Arrange the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on the greens, ensuring they are skin side down if they have skin. Distribute the cherry tomatoes around the fillets for extra flavor.
4. Season Up:
Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, cherry tomatoes, and onions. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the salmon and sprinkle the Greek seasoning, along with salt and pepper, evenly across the fillets.
5. Make the Flavorful Yogurt Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and half of the chopped dill and oregano or basil. This will be a creamy topping for the salmon.
6. Combine and Bake:
Spread a generous dollop of the yogurt mixture on top of each salmon fillet. Then, place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye out for the salmon to flake easily with a fork and for the tomatoes to become blistered and softened.
7. Finishing Touches:
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Garnish the salmon with the remaining fresh dill and oregano or basil and arrange lemon slices around the dish for that extra zing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Oven Greek Salmon right away, alongside your favorite sides like roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Oven Greek Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Replace the Cherry Tomatoes With?
If cherry tomatoes are not available, you can substitute them with regular diced tomatoes or even bell peppers. They will still add a nice sweetness and flavor to the dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or oven, keeping an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salmon and veggies up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving for the best taste!