Mediterranean Salmon Bake – A Flavorful Weeknight Favorite

Sharing is caring!

Mediterranean Salmon Bake is the kind of dinner that brings bold flavor, beautiful colors, and simple ingredients together on one pan. Juicy salmon gets roasted to perfection, then topped with a warm sauté of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and creamy feta. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and ready in just about 35 minutes — a true lifesaver on busy weeknights.

I’ve been making this for years, and it never disappoints. Whether you’re feeding your family or planning a dinner for friends, this dish is impressive without being complicated. You can even make it ahead and finish it off in the oven right before serving.

 Want more Mediterranean-style meals like this? Subscribe here for weekly recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

 What Makes This Recipe So Special

There are lots of salmon recipes out there, but this Mediterranean Salmon Bake stands out for a few simple reasons:

• Balanced flavor in every bite – Tangy feta, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic-kissed spinach blend perfectly with the richness of salmon.

• Minimal cleanup – One baking sheet, one skillet. That’s it.

• Great for meal prep – You can sauté the veggie topping ahead, refrigerate, and bake it all fresh in minutes.

• Naturally healthy – Full of protein, omega-3s, and greens, this dish fits beautifully into a Mediterranean-style diet.

• Pairs easily with sides – Like this Greek Salad or a slice of Mediterranean Baked Feta on the side.

It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy, but fits into real life. And once you try it, I have a feeling it’ll become a regular in your rotation too.

Ingredients & Preparation

What You’ll Need for This Mediterranean Salmon Bake

This dish comes together with just a few core ingredients — many of which you likely already have in your fridge or pantry. That’s part of what makes it so stress-free and perfect for a midweek dinner.

Here’s a quick look at everything you’ll need:

The beauty of this recipe is that it welcomes substitutions without compromising flavor. For example, you can easily swap in olive oil instead of avocado oil, or use a dairy-free feta alternative if needed.

Tools & Smart Swaps That Keep It Simple

All you’ll need for prep is a baking sheet, a skillet, and a little parchment paper. No fancy equipment here — just a good oven and a sharp knife.

If you’re looking to adjust the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs, here are a few smart tips:

• No red onion? Try shallots or thinly sliced leeks.

• Want it spicy? Add crushed red pepper to the skillet while sautéing the veggies.

• No pesto on hand? A squeeze of lemon juice works just as well for brightness.

Sometimes, I even toss in extra chopped veggies like zucchini or bell pepper when I need to clean out the fridge. The flavors blend beautifully, and it turns the salmon bake into more of a one-pan feast — especially when served with something like this Fresh Beet, Avocado & Feta Salad. Or for a heartier bite, try pairing it with this Loaded Mediterranean Flatbread with Whipped Feta — one of my favorite combinations.

Cooking Instructions & Tips

Step-by-Step Method for Perfect Results

This recipe keeps things simple and satisfying. You’ll bake the salmon in two stages — once to get it started, and again after adding the flavorful topping. Here’s exactly how to do it:

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your salmon filet in the center. Drizzle with avocado oil, then use a brush or spoon to evenly coat. Sprinkle with sea salt and garlic powder.

2. First Bake

Place the salmon in the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 10 minutes, just enough to begin cooking without drying it out.

3. Sauté the Veggies

While the salmon bakes, warm a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in a bit more avocado oil. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for 5 to 8 minutes, or until translucent and soft.

4. Add Tomatoes & Spinach

Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and the baby spinach. Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes to help the spinach wilt, then stir everything together.

5. Fold in the Feta

Once the spinach is wilted, turn off the heat. Sprinkle in the feta cheese and mix gently until it starts to melt slightly into the mixture.

6. Final Bake

Remove the salmon from the oven and evenly spoon the warm spinach mixture across the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

7. Optional Finish

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If using, drizzle with pesto sauce just before serving. The herby, garlicky flavor is a perfect contrast to the creamy feta.

Tips & Tricks for Mediterranean Salmon Bake Success

Want to get that salmon just right? These little tips make a big difference:

• Don’t skip the rest time after baking — it helps the juices redistribute and keeps the salmon moist.

• Use a thermometer if you’re unsure — salmon is perfectly done at 145°F.

• Short on time? Sauté the veggie topping in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just warm it up before layering on the salmon.

• Broil the top for the final 2 minutes if you like your feta a little browned and bubbly.

Sometimes, I serve this dish with a spoonful of Lemon Salmon Orzo or a side of Roasted Salmon with Creamy Spinach & Red Pepper for those who love variety on the plate. Both pair incredibly well and stretch the meal into a stunning Mediterranean spread.

Serving, Storing & Pairing

What to Serve with Mediterranean Salmon Bake

This Mediterranean Salmon Bake is packed with protein, greens, and bold flavor, so it doesn’t need much on the side — but that doesn’t mean it can’t be part of a truly memorable meal.

When I serve this for guests, I like to build a small Mediterranean spread. A refreshing salad and a simple starch go a long way in rounding out the dish.

For something bright and crisp, pair the salmon with this Mediterranean Cucumber and Olive Salad. It cuts through the richness of the feta and salmon with briny olives and crunchy cucumber.

If you’re craving something warm and comforting, I highly recommend these Greek Potatoes with Lemon and Feta Cheese. Their zesty, garlicky punch complements the savory salmon beautifully — and they bake right alongside the fish if you time it right.

Here are a few more simple serving ideas:

• A side of warm couscous or quinoa with chopped herbs

• Toasted pita wedges with hummus or tzatziki

• A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or chilled rosé

No matter what you pair it with, this dish delivers elegance and comfort without extra effort.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this dish is how well it holds up the next day. Here’s how to keep those leftovers fresh and delicious:

To store:
Allow the salmon to cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat:
You can warm it gently in the microwave (start with 45 seconds, then go in 15-second bursts), or cover it with foil and bake at 300°F for 10–12 minutes. Just be careful not to overcook — salmon dries quickly.

To freeze:
While you can freeze it, I recommend enjoying it fresh. The feta and spinach topping tends to release extra moisture after thawing, which can affect the texture. If you do freeze, wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

 Pro tip: Save any leftover topping to spoon over scrambled eggs or roasted veggies the next day. It’s too good to waste!

FAQ – Mediterranean Salmon Bake

1. Can I make this salmon bake dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or use your favorite dairy-free alternative. A creamy cashew cheese or almond-based feta substitute works well here.

2. Is it okay to use frozen salmon?
Absolutely — just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before baking. Frozen salmon is a great budget-friendly option that still delivers great results.

3. Can I prep the veggie topping ahead of time?
Definitely. You can sauté the onions, tomatoes, and spinach up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat slightly before topping the salmon.

4. What kind of pesto is best for this dish?
A classic basil pesto works beautifully, but sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto adds a fun twist. Just make sure it’s not too oily.

5. Can I make this for a dinner party?
Yes! It’s a great dinner party main — elegant, low-effort, and easy to portion. You can even double the recipe and bake on a sheet pan.

6. How do I keep the salmon from drying out?
Bake it until it reaches 145°F, and let it rest for 5 minutes after coming out of the oven. That rest time locks in the juices.

Final Thoughts: Mediterranean Comfort on One Pan

This Mediterranean Salmon Bake has become more than just a meal in my kitchen — it’s a weeknight ritual, a dinner party centerpiece, and a comfort food I turn to when I need something nourishing but not complicated.

The combination of flaky salmon, bold sun-dried tomatoes, garlicky spinach, and that irresistible crumble of feta makes it unforgettable. And the fact that it comes together in under 40 minutes? That’s just the cherry on top.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll definitely love:

• Creamy Salmon and Spinach Orzo – rich, comforting, and great for batch cooking

• Zesty Fish Tacos with Spicy Sriracha Lime Sauce – another fresh, seafood favorite with a little kick

• Or explore another take on the same flavor profile with this Mediterranean Salmon recipe from Cuisine With Me — it’s a lovely variation worth bookmarking.

Print