Mediterranean Salmon Bake

Mediterranean Salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the best of bright herbs and tangy balsamic for a healthy, delicious seafood dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this broiled salmon comes out flaky, tender, and infused with the bold, herbaceous flavors of cilantro, basil, and garlic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to serve something elegant with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy — Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

• Packed with flavor — A marinade of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs infuses the salmon beautifully.

• Healthy — Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.

• Versatile — Serve with rice, vegetables, or a salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.

• Minimal ingredients — Most items are pantry staples.

• Customizable — Adaptable to various herbs and cooking methods.

• Elegant presentation — A simple, rustic dish that looks great on the plate.

• Perfect for entertaining — Impressive yet effortless.

• Family-friendly — Mild yet flavorful enough to satisfy all palates.

• Easy cleanup — No complicated steps or extra pans required.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• olive oil

• balsamic vinegar

• garlic cloves, pressed

• salmon fillets

• garlic salt

• fresh cilantro, chopped

• fresh basil, chopped

Directions

1. Make the Marinade
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

2. Prepare the Salmon
   Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish. Rub the pressed garlic over the salmon fillets. Pour the marinade over the fish, turning the fillets to coat both sides. Sprinkle with garlic salt, then scatter the chopped cilantro and basil over the top. Let marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes.

3. Preheat the Broiler
   Move an oven rack to about 6 inches below the broiler. Preheat the oven’s broiler.

4. Broil the Salmon
   Remove the salmon from the marinade, shaking off excess. Reserve a few tablespoons of marinade. Place the salmon on a broiler-safe pan. Broil, turning once and basting occasionally with reserved marinade (but stop basting for the last 4 minutes of cooking). Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, until the salmon is browned on both sides and flakes easily with a fork.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Additional time (marinating): 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap herbs: Try rosemary, parsley, or thyme if you don’t like cilantro or basil.

• Add a citrus twist: Finish with fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of orange juice.

• Add heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the marinade adds a subtle kick.

• Use a different protein: The marinade works great with chicken or shrimp.

• Include vegetables: Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the baking dish.

• Try baking instead of broiling: Bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes.

• Add olives: Kalamata olives add a briny complement to the herbs and vinegar.

• Top with feta: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy finish.

• Make it dairy-free: This recipe is already dairy-free as written.

• Add a crunchy topping: Toasted pine nuts or crushed almonds provide texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, which can dry out the fish.

• Serve cold: Leftovers are great flaked into salads or sandwiches.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. For more accuracy, use a food thermometer—the USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I marinate the salmon longer than 10 minutes?

Yes, but avoid over-marinating. 30 minutes to 1 hour is fine, but longer can start to affect the texture of the fish due to the vinegar.

Is it necessary to flip the salmon while broiling?

Flipping helps achieve even browning on both sides, but you can skip this step if your fillets are thin or delicate.

What’s the best substitute for balsamic vinegar?

Red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar can be used, though they are less sweet and more acidic. Add a small amount of honey or maple syrup to balance it out.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes. Use about 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and cilantro (or parsley) in place of the fresh herbs.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Salmon?

Serve with rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh Greek salad for a balanced meal.

Can I cook this on the grill?

Yes. Grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with the marinade, until cooked through.

How do I keep the salmon from sticking to the pan?

Use a broiler-safe pan lightly brushed with oil or lined with foil for easier cleanup and less sticking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vinegar and seasonings are certified if needed.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook the marinated salmon at 375°F in the air fryer for about 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that packs serious flavor into every bite. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes of your time, you can serve a meal that’s wholesome, vibrant, and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort.

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