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Mediterranean Salmon

Mediterranean Salmon: Quick, Flavorful Dinner in 30 Minutes

This Mediterranean Salmon recipe is a quick, flavorful dinner option packed with protein and vibrant ingredients, perfect for busy evenings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 2 lb salmon fillets look for fresh or frozen for the best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds depth and a smoky flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon salt enhances overall flavors
For the Rice Base
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided; essential for cooking and adding flavor
  • 1.5 cups cooked jasmine rice serves as the lovely base for the dish
  • 15 oz canned chickpeas packed with protein and fiber
  • 6 oz cherry tomatoes sliced in half; impart freshness and acidity
  • cup kalamata olives sliced; contribute a briny flavor
  • ¼ cup green olives sliced; adds another layer of briny goodness
For the Flavor Boost
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano a classic Mediterranean herb for seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley lends mild herbal notes
  • ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes offers a subtle heat; omit if preferred
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed; brightens the dish
For the Creamy Finish
  • 6 oz feta cheese diced into small cubes; provides creaminess and tang
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano chopped; optional for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Large high-sided skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Salmon
  1. Preheat a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Season the salmon fillets with smoked paprika and salt, ensuring even coverage. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and then place the salmon skin-side up. Cook for 4 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Remove and set aside on a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil, followed by the cooked jasmine rice and drained chickpeas. Toss in the sliced cherry tomatoes and both kalamata and green olives. Pour in the lemon juice, stirring well to combine. Heat for about 4-5 minutes, letting the rice soak in the Mediterranean flavors until warmed through and slightly crispy at the bottom.
  3. Combine the diced feta cheese with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and dried oregano in a small bowl. Mix until well blended.
  4. Stir in half of the feta mixture into the rice, distributing evenly. Gently place the salmon back into the skillet atop the rice. Spoon the remaining feta mixture over the salmon and garnish with fresh oregano if desired. Heat together for about 2 minutes, then serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Freeze the salmon and rice mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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