There is something truly magical about the vibrant flavors in this Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of tender, flaky salmon infused with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all brought together with briny olives and creamy feta cheese. This dish brings the sunny Mediterranean coastline right to your dinner table, making it a lively, colorful, and irresistible meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this flavor-packed Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—from the fresh herbs that lift the dish aromatically to the vibrant vegetables that add juiciness and texture. Simple yet essential, these ingredients work together to create a symphony of taste and color.
- Salmon fillets: Choose 5-6 ounce pieces for a perfect balance between tenderness and hearty flavor.
- Fresh oregano: Adds an earthy, aromatic touch that’s very characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Brings a pungent depth and savory warmth to the marinade.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality one to create richness and a silky texture.
- Lemon juice: Provides a bright, zesty punch that cuts through the richness of the salmon beautifully.
- Cherry tomatoes (halved): Their juicy sweetness is the perfect partner to the savory salmon.
- Green California ripe olives (pitted and halved): Add a salty, briny flavor that’s essential to this dish’s personality.
- English cucumber (diced): Offers a refreshing crunch and contrast to the tender fish.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Sprinkles in fresh, grassy notes.
- Fresh basil (chopped): Brings a sweet and slightly peppery aroma that lifts the whole plate.
- Feta cheese (crumbled): Adds creaminess and a tangy accent — a Mediterranean staple that completes the dish.
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper: To season perfectly and enhance all other flavors.
How to Make Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
Start by generously seasoning your salmon fillets with fresh oregano, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. This simple marinade is incredibly effective—it infuses the salmon with tons of fresh herbaceous and citrus notes that will make each bite pop. Letting it sit even for a few minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon Perfectly
Heat your cast-iron skillet on medium-high and add a touch of olive oil. Place the salmon skin-side down and let it cook for about 5 minutes, which crisps up the skin and locks in moisture. Flip gently and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily. This method ensures juicy, tender salmon every time without drying it out.
Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Topping
While the salmon is cooking, mix together halved cherry tomatoes, green olives, diced cucumber, chopped parsley, fresh basil, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This topping is an absolute flavor powerhouse, combining sweet, briny, creamy, and fresh elements. It’s what takes this dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Place the cooked salmon fillets on a serving platter and spoon the vibrant Mediterranean topping generously over the top. This Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe is all about color, texture, and flavor harmony—serve it immediately so everyone can enjoy the warm salmon paired with the cool, fresh topping.
How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped fresh parsley or basil right before serving adds brightness and makes the dish even more inviting. A lemon wedge on the side allows guests to add a little more citrus zing if they’d like. For a bit of crunch, consider toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds as a garnish—these small touches elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement Mediterranean flavors. Think fluffy couscous, herbed quinoa, or a light drizzle of olive oil on roasted baby potatoes. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or sautéed garlic spinach are also fantastic companions that won’t overpower this star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve the salmon on a rustic wooden board surrounded by bowls of the fresh topping and sides for a family-style feast. Or plate each salmon fillet individually with a generous helping of the topping elegantly spooned over it and a few scattered olives and feta on the plate for visual interest. Either way, the vibrant colors alone will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover salmon and topping, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the salmon moist and the fresh topping crisp. Leftovers should be enjoyed within 2 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
Fresh salmon can be frozen before cooking, but the prepared topping is best made fresh to preserve its bright flavors and texture. If you plan ahead, freeze the salmon fillets uncooked, then thaw completely before making this Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe.
Reheating
Gently reheat salmon in a low oven or covered skillet on medium-low heat to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery. Enjoy the topping cold to maintain its fresh crunch and flavor contrast with the warm salmon.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before marinating and cooking so it cooks evenly and maintains its texture.
What can I substitute for green olives if I don’t have any?
Black olives or Kalamata olives make excellent substitutes and will still add that briny punch. Just adjust the quantity to your taste, as Kalamatas tend to be stronger.
Is feta cheese necessary in this recipe?
While feta is a signature flavor that completes the dish, you can substitute with goat cheese or leave it out if needed—but feta’s creamy tang really adds to the Mediterranean vibe.
Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-searing?
Yes! Grilling gives salmon a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh topping. Just be gentle when flipping to keep the fillets intact.
How long can I marinate the salmon before cooking?
For best results, marinate for 15 to 30 minutes. Longer marinating may start to cook the fish due to the lemon juice and alter the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and simple cooking techniques. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight winner or a dish to impress friends, it delivers every time with bright colors, well-balanced tastes, and a comforting yet elegant feel. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite too!
Print
Mediterranean Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Mediterranean Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets seasoned with fresh oregano, garlic, and lemon, topped with a vibrant, flavorful Mediterranean vegetable and feta cheese mixture. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a healthy and delicious meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant gathering.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (5–6 ounces each)
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
Mediterranean Topping
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- â…” cup green California ripe olives (pitted and halved)
- ½ English cucumber (diced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
- ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: In a medium bowl, coat the salmon fillets thoroughly with fresh oregano, minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Make sure each fillet is evenly seasoned for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes to develop a crispy skin. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Prepare the Mediterranean Topping: While the salmon cooks, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, pitted and halved green olives, diced English cucumber, chopped parsley, chopped basil, crumbled feta cheese, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a bowl. Stir gently to mix all the flavors together.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon fillets to a serving platter and spoon the Mediterranean vegetable and feta mixture generously on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets.
- Feel free to substitute green olives with Kalamata olives for a slightly different taste.
- Serve with a side of quinoa or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Ensure salmon is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
