Mediterranean salmon with vegetables

This Mediterranean salmon is a simple yet impressive dish that transforms a weekday dinner into something special. It brings together bright fresh flavors from lemon and herbs with the richness of salmon and briny accents from olives and tomatoes for a refreshing coastal vibe right in your kitchen.

I made this after a spur-of-the-moment seafood purchase and was delighted how beautifully the flavors melded. It’s become a reassuring go-to when I want something healthy and light without fuss.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: provide protein and healthy fats pick fresh, firm fillets for the best texture
• Extra virgin olive oil: adds richness and helps meld flavors choose a fruity and vibrant oil if you can
• Fresh lemon juice: brightens the fish and complements the Mediterranean notes use freshly squeezed for true brightness
• Cherry tomatoes: give sweetness and acidity select the ripest you find for juiciness and color
• Red onion: adds bite and crunch opt for a small one and slice thinly so it softens during cooking
• Kalamata olives: bring a salty tang that lifts the whole dish buy firm olives that aren’t too oily
• Fresh basil: brings aromatic freshness chop just before serving to keep it lively
• Dried oregano: adds a classic herb note that ties everything together use good quality for maximum aroma
• Salt: enhances all the flavors balance carefully depending on the olives’ saltiness

Instructions

Build The Base:

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius and lightly coat a baking dish with some olive oil. This prevents sticking and starts the cooking process with a nice sear in the oven.

Prepare The Mediterranean Mix:

In a medium bowl combine halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, halved Kalamata olives, olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, and salt. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure each bite has a mix of fresh, briny, and tangy flavors.

Arrange The Salmon:

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. This keeps the salmon moist and helps the skin crisp slightly if you prefer to eat it. Surround the fillets with the vegetable and olive mixture, drizzling a little extra olive oil over the top to help everything roast beautifully.

Bake To Perfection:

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want to cook until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily when you test it with a fork. The tomatoes and onions should soften releasing all their juices.

Add Freshness Before Serving:

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the salmon and vegetables. This final touch adds a layer of aromatic brightness that feels fresh and just right.

My favorite ingredient here is the Kalamata olives because they add a punch of saltiness that balances the juicy tomatoes and bright lemon. Serving this at a family dinner always sparks comments about how fresh and vibrant it tastes—a dish that feels both comforting and celebratory.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salmon may slightly firm up but will remain moist. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep it tender. The tomato and olive mixture can be served warm or cold which makes it flexible.

Ingredient Swaps

If you do not have Kalamata olives, try green olives stuffed with pimento for a different but still salty burst. Use thyme or rosemary in place of oregano for a unique herbal twist that also pairs wonderfully with salmon. Yellow or grape tomatoes can substitute cherry tomatoes, but adjust cooking time slightly as they may vary in moisture content.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a side of fluffy couscous or crusty whole grain bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A simple green salad with cucumber and feta adds a cooling crunch to complement the warm roasted fish. For an extra touch, drizzle a little homemade tzatziki or garlic yogurt on the side to lend creaminess and tang.

This Mediterranean salmon brings refreshing coastal flavors and makes weeknight dinners special without extra fuss.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What is the best way to bake Mediterranean salmon?

Bake the salmon at 200°C in a greased dish, surrounded by seasoned cherry tomatoes, olives, and onion, for 15-20 minutes until it flakes easily.

→ Can I substitute Kalamata olives with another type?

Yes, other briny olives like green olives or Castelvetrano can be used but Kalamata olives add a distinct rich flavor typical of Mediterranean cooking.

→ How do the herbs enhance the dish?

Fresh basil and dried oregano provide aromatic, earthy notes that complement the brightness of lemon and the richness of the salmon and olives.

→ Is it necessary to use extra virgin olive oil?

Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity depth and smooth texture essential to the Mediterranean profile, but regular olive oil can work in a pinch.

→ How can I tell when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it easily flakes apart with a fork and is opaque throughout, usually after 15-20 minutes baking at 200°C.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

The vegetable mixture can be prepared ahead, but it’s best to bake the salmon just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.