If you are craving a dish that combines vibrant flavors, effortless preparation, and wholesome ingredients, the Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful meal brings together tender, flaky salmon topped with a rich tomato paste and herb mixture, complemented by colorful roasted vegetables that soak up every bit of savory goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends, this recipe delivers a harmonious blend of Mediterranean flair and nourishing comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each component works in harmony, contributing not just to taste, but also to texture and color, making your plate as inviting as it is delicious.
- ¼ cup tomato paste: Provides a rich, concentrated tomato flavor that forms the vibrant topping.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds smoothness and helps carry the herbs and spices beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: Gives a subtle tang that lifts the entire topping.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Brings together fragrant dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for Mediterranean authenticity.
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika: Adds warmth and a gentle smoky depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a hint of spiciness and balances the sweet tomato base.
- 1 ½ pounds salmon fillet (skin on): The star protein, tender and rich in omega-3, perfect for baking with the skin crisping beautifully underneath.
- 2 large red peppers (or 6-8 mini peppers, sliced): Contributes a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1-2 large zucchini (sliced): Offers a mild, fresh vegetable texture that complements the salmon.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Seasoning for the vegetables that echoes the topping’s Mediterranean herbs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps roast the vegetables to a tender, caramelized finish.
- Salt + pepper (to taste): Essential to season the vegetables perfectly.
- ½ pound cherry tomatoes: Burst into juicy sweetness during roasting, brightening the entire dish.
How to Make Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a sheet pan with baking parchment. This simple prep step ensures your salmon and veggies won’t stick and that cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Topping and Coat the Salmon
In a small bowl, stir together the tomato paste, olive oil, mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper until you have a smooth, fragrant spread. Place the salmon fillet at the center of your prepared pan and gently spread this flavorful topping evenly over the flesh. This mix enhances the fish with a rich, Mediterranean touch.
Step 3: Toss and Arrange the Vegetables
Grab a large bowl and toss the sliced red peppers and zucchini with olive oil, the second tablespoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This seasoning step infuses the veggies with herby goodness and ensures they roast perfectly. Spread the seasoned vegetables around the salmon on the pan, then scatter the bright cherry tomatoes on top for a pop of color and sweetness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender and beautifully roasted. This quick bake brings out the best textures and mingles the flavors effortlessly.
How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches elevate this Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe beautifully. Fresh chopped parsley or basil scattered on top adds a vibrant green contrast and fresh herbal punch. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving really brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty lift that your taste buds will adore.
Side Dishes
This salmon dish pairs joyfully with simple sides such as fluffy couscous, herbed quinoa, or a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Each companion adds its own texture—whether light, grainy, or crunchy—and helps balance the richness of the baked salmon and veggies for a well-rounded meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside warm pita bread to soak up the delicious juices. You could also offer a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with garlic and dill as a cool, creamy contrast that complements the herbs and spices wonderfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salmon and vegetables will keep well for up to 2 days, perfect for a quick reheated lunch or dinner that still feels fresh and satisfying.
Freezing
This recipe freezes nicely if you want to prepare ahead. Wrap the salmon and veggies tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, just until warmed through to maintain the texture and avoid drying out. Microwaving is quicker but can make the salmon a bit rubbery, so oven reheating is preferred.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works well if fully thawed before cooking. Make sure to pat it dry to remove excess moisture to help the topping stick and the fish to bake evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe is fantastic for meal prep because it’s quick, nutritious, and keeps well refrigerated for a couple of days.
Can I substitute other vegetables in this dish?
Definitely. Vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or eggplant work great and pair nicely with the Mediterranean herbs and roasted salmon flavor.
How spicy is the paprika in this dish?
The paprika adds warmth and mild smokiness rather than heat, so this recipe is generally mild and friendly for most palates.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries—mix your own with dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary to recreate a similar fragrant herb blend that captures the Mediterranean essence of the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe is truly a culinary hug on a plate that you can whip up with ease, bringing bright colors, fresh herbs, and satisfying flavors together in one nourishing meal. Once you try it, you’ll likely find yourself turning to this recipe whenever you want a delicious, healthy dinner that feels special without the fuss. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients, and let your oven do the magic—you’re in for a genuine delight!
Print
Mediterranean Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mediterranean Baked Salmon recipe features a flavorful tomato paste and herb topping baked to perfection alongside vibrant roasted red peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. It’s a simple, healthy, and colorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon and Topping
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ pounds salmon fillet (skin on)
Vegetables
- 2 large red peppers (or 6–8 mini red peppers), sliced
- 1–2 large zucchini, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ pound cherry tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with baking parchment to prevent sticking and ease clean-up.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine tomato paste, 2 tablespoons olive oil, mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble the Salmon: Place the salmon fillet skin-side down in the center of the prepared sheet pan. Spread the prepared topping evenly over the surface of the salmon.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the sliced red peppers and zucchini with 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Add Vegetables to Pan: Arrange the seasoned peppers and zucchini around the salmon fillet on the sheet pan. Scatter the cherry tomatoes on top of the vegetables.
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.
Notes
- For even cooking, cut vegetables to similar thicknesses.
- Using skin-on salmon helps keep the fillet moist during baking.
- Feel free to swap Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like oregano and basil.
- Cherry tomatoes add sweetness; grape tomatoes can be used as an alternative.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet.
