When I first discovered the brilliance of feta & herb-crusted salmon, it was an enlightening moment in my culinary journey. Picture this: a busy weeknight, the kids are hungry, and my usual routine of splurging on takeout just wouldn’t do. I craved something fresh and homemade, yet quick to prepare. That’s when I turned to this Mediterranean delight.
A tender salmon fillet sits majestically beneath a creamy, herby feta topping, embraced by the warmth of the oven. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal time, this dish transforms your evening meals from mundane to magical—perfect for anyone tired of the same old fast food routine.
In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a meal that not only nourishes but also impresses. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cooking enthusiast, this recipe offers the ease and flavor that every kitchen deserves. Dive in with me as we create a dish that will leave your taste buds singing and your family asking for seconds!
Why is Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon a Must-Try?
Flavorful Delight: The rich feta and fresh herbs create a mouthwatering topping that elevates the salmon to gourmet status.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without the hassle.
Healthy Profile: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish offers not just flavor but nutrition as well.
Versatile Serving: Pair it with garlic-parmesan roasted carrots or a crisp arugula salad for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress and become a favorite at your table.
Simple Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this delicious recipe effortlessly. Let’s dive deeper into making this exceptional dish!
Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon Ingredients
For the Salmon
- Large Salmon Fillet (about 2 1/4 lb.) – The star of this dish; look for wild-caught for enhanced flavor.
- Kosher Salt (3/4 tsp.) – Essential for flavor; you can reduce or omit for a low-sodium option.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/4 tsp.) – Adds a hint of warming heat; white pepper serves as a milder alternative.
For the Feta Crust
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup) – This creamy binder melds the feta and herbs beautifully; swap with Dijonnaise for added zest.
- Crumbled Feta (about 7 oz.) – Tangy and creamy, this cheese provides a delightful topping; goat cheese offers a different twist if needed.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup) – Freshness and color abound; cilantro can be used if you desire a new flavor.
- Chopped Fresh Dill (2 Tbsp.) – A classic partner for salmon; feel free to omit if you lack this herb.
- Finely Grated Lemon Zest (1 tsp.) – This adds a burst of brightness; a squeeze of lemon juice can substitute in a pinch.
- Clove Garlic, Finely Chopped (1) – This ingredient gives aromatic depth; use garlic powder if you’re in a hurry.
For Serving
- Lemon Wedges – These complement the salmon with bright acidity; while optional, they are recommended for serving.
Get ready to whip up this sumptuous Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon that promises a flavorful journey straight to the heart of the Mediterranean!
How to Make Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook the salmon evenly. Don’t forget to line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup!
- Season the Salmon: Place the large salmon fillet on the prepared sheet pan. Sprinkle it generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, letting the flavors soak in.
- Mix the Feta Topping: In a mixing bowl, blend together the mayonnaise, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, dill, lemon zest, and finely chopped garlic. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Spread the Mixture: Take the creamy feta mixture and gently spread it evenly over the seasoned salmon fillet, creating a nice thick layer that will bake beautifully.
- Bake Until Flaky: Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it for that golden crust!
- Serve Up Smiles: Once it’s out of the oven, serve your feta & herb-crusted salmon immediately with lemon wedges for that delightful burst of acidity.
Optional: Pair with a fresh arugula salad for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with these delicious alterations!
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based mayo and a combination of nutritional yeast and cashew cheese for a creamy vegan topping.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or hot paprika to the feta mixture for a delightful heat that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Herb Swap: Replace parsley and dill with thyme and basil for a fresh twist. Each herb offers distinct flavors that enhance the dish.
- Citrus Burst: Mix in orange zest instead of lemon for a sweeter, citrusy profile that brightens the overall flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Top your feta mixture with crushed walnuts or almonds before baking for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs uniquely with salmon.
- Mediterranean Blend: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes and olives into the feta mixture for a heartier and more complex Mediterranean taste.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the topping for a warm, smoky flavor that transforms the dish into something extraordinary.
- Garlic Mashed: Blend in roasted garlic instead of raw to give a sweeter, rich depth to the topping that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
With these exciting variations, your Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon can be a canvas for your culinary creativity!
What to Serve with Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon?
A perfect meal deserves delicious companions to enhance the experience at your dinner table.
- Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots: Sweet and savory, these roasted carrots add a delightful crunch and pair beautifully with the salmon’s creaminess.
- Fresh Arugula Salad: Light and peppery, this salad with a citrus vinaigrette brightens your plate and balances the richness of the feta crust.
- Couscous with Lemon Zest: Fluffy and simple, couscous provides a great base that soaks up the salmon’s juices while adding subtle lemony vibes.
- Quinoa Tabbouleh: Nutty quinoa combined with fresh herbs and vegetables brings a Mediterranean flair, complementing the dish’s flavors without overpowering them.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus sprinkled with lemon juice offers freshness and an elegant touch that elevates your dinner table.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly, enhancing the meal with refreshing acidity and bright notes.
Make Ahead Options
These Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the feta topping up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix together the mayonnaise, feta, parsley, dill, lemon zest, and garlic, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can season the salmon fillet and place it on the baking sheet, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, up to 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the chilled feta mixture over the salmon and pop it into a preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Following these steps ensures that your salmon retains its texture and flavor, making for a deliciously hassle-free dinner that’s just as delightful as if it were freshly made!
Expert Tips for Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon
- Freshness Matters: Ensure your salmon is ultra-fresh for the best flavor and texture. Look for a vibrant color and a clean smell at the seafood counter.
- Don’t Skip the Mayonnaise: Smearing mayonnaise on the salmon isn’t just for flavor! It helps the feta topping adhere perfectly, preventing it from sliding off during cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that your salmon reaches 145°F. Undercooking can lead to an unsafe meal, while overcooking dries it out.
- Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment! While parsley and dill are traditional, using basil or cilantro can give the feta & herb-crusted salmon a delightful twist.
- Prep the Topping Ahead: To save time, prepare the feta topping in advance and store it in the fridge. Just spread it on the salmon when you’re ready to bake!
How to Store and Freeze Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon
- Room Temperature: This salmon dish should not be left out for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and freshness.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled salmon tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy your tasty Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon!
Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! I recommend using a large wild-caught salmon fillet if possible, as it offers a richer flavor and better texture. Look for bright-colored, firm fillets without any dark spots to ensure freshness.
How should I store leftovers of feta & herb-crusted salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating should be done gently to retain moisture—about 10-15 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) works best!
Can I freeze feta & herb-crusted salmon? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the cooked salmon cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge first for the best texture.
What should I do if my topping is too runny?
No worries! If your feta mixture is too runny, you can add more crumbled feta or a bit of breadcrumbs to thicken it up. Just mix until you reach your desired consistency before spreading it over the salmon.
Is this dish suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Not quite! As the recipe includes feta and mayonnaise, it isn’t suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, you can try substituting the feta with a dairy-free cheese and the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative to make it more allergy-friendly.
How can I tell if the salmon is fully cooked?
Great question! The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, it should flake easily with a fork, and the flesh should look opaque rather than translucent.
Feta & Herb-Crusted Salmon: Quick Mediterranean Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with aluminum foil.
- Place the large salmon fillet on the prepared sheet pan. Sprinkle it generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, blend together the mayonnaise, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, dill, lemon zest, and finely chopped garlic. Stir until well combined.
- Spread the creamy feta mixture evenly over the seasoned salmon fillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
