Baked Feta Salmon Recipe | Creamy, Savory, and Easy to Make

Baked Feta Salmon is an easy, yet impressive dish that’s full of flavor and nutrients. The creamy feta cheese topping melts beautifully on the fish, creating a rich, tangy layer that perfectly complements the mild salmon. It’s baked to perfection in the oven, making it a hassle-free, healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Why You’ll Love Baked Feta Salmon

Here’s why this dish is a game-changer:

• Quick and easy: It takes just 25 minutes to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Rich in flavor: The creamy feta and lemon bring out the best in the salmon.
• Healthy and nutrient-dense: Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while feta adds calcium and flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Customizable: You can adjust the herbs, spices, and vegetables to suit your taste.
• Perfectly baked: The fish stays moist and tender, with a crisp, golden topping.

If you’re a fan of fish and creamy, tangy cheese, this is your new favorite meal!

Baked Feta Salmon Recipe

This recipe is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients to create a flavorful dish that will impress everyone around your table.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 1 block (4 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets).
2. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the top of the salmon fillets. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.

Step 3: Add the feta topping

1. Crumble the feta cheese evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Use a spoon to spread it out so that it covers the fish well. The cheese will melt and create a delicious topping as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake the salmon

1. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. The feta cheese will turn golden and slightly crispy on top.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

1. Once the salmon is cooked through, remove it from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve the baked feta salmon with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Baked Feta Salmon

• Don’t overcook the salmon: Keep an eye on the fish as it bakes. Overcooking will result in dry salmon. It should be tender and flaky, but still moist.
• Use fresh lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the dish. You can also zest the lemon before juicing it to add a little extra citrus flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: While oregano is a classic, you can also use thyme, dill, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
• Broil the top: For an extra crispy, golden top, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Just watch it closely to avoid burning.
• Skin-on or skinless salmon: This recipe works with either skin-on or skinless salmon fillets. Skin-on will have a slightly crispier texture around the edges, but skinless is easier to eat.

Flavor Variations for Baked Feta Salmon

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit your tastes. Here are a few variations you can try:

Mediterranean Style

• Add chopped kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil to the feta topping for a Mediterranean twist. You could even drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top before serving.

Spicy Kick

• Add red pepper flakes to the feta mixture or drizzle a little sriracha or hot sauce on top of the salmon before baking for a spicy version.

Lemon Herb Feta Salmon

• Add fresh lemon zest and finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon to the feta mixture for a fresh, herby flavor.

Pesto Feta Salmon

• Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on top of the salmon before adding the crumbled feta for an herby, garlic-infused twist.

Crispy Topping

• Mix some breadcrumbs or panko into the crumbled feta cheese for a slightly crunchy topping that adds texture to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Baked feta salmon is a flavorful main dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

• Roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the salmon and feta.
• Rice or quinoa: Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the juices.
• Crisp salad: A fresh Greek salad or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side to this flavorful salmon dish.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Feta Salmon

• Storing: Leftover baked feta salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: While salmon can be frozen, the texture of the feta topping may change. If you plan to freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat within 1–2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes! You can use goat cheese or cream cheese for a different creamy texture, but feta adds a nice tangy flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.

3. How do I know when my salmon is done?

The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Can I bake multiple pieces of salmon at once?

Yes! Just make sure to space the fillets out on the baking sheet so they cook evenly.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients (season the salmon and crumble the feta) and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. However, it’s best to bake the salmon fresh for optimal texture.

6. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Yes, you can add sliced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes around the salmon on the baking sheet. They will roast alongside the fish and absorb some of the flavors.

7. Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?

Yes, grilling is a great option. Grill the salmon fillets on medium-high heat and add the feta mixture near the end of the cooking time so it melts.

8. What kind of salmon should I use?

Wild-caught salmon is preferred for its rich flavor and sustainability, but farmed salmon works well too.

9. Can I make this recipe without the feta?

Yes, you can skip the feta and add another topping like a drizzle of olive oil, a lemon herb sauce, or a sprinkle of parmesan.

10. How do I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes to the feta mixture or drizzle some spicy chili sauce on top before baking.