This tasty Mediterranean salmon is quick and easy, made all in one pan! With fresh veggies and zesty seasonings, it’s healthy and bursting with flavor.
You’ll love how simple it is to cook everything together without much fuss. I enjoy tossing in some olives for extra kick—it’s like a mini vacation on my plate! 🐟🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe. If you’re looking to save money, you can also use frozen salmon. Just make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking!
Olive Oil: A must for extra flavor! You can substitute with avocado oil if you prefer a milder taste or need a high smoke point for cooking.
Rice: I like using jasmine rice for its fluffy texture. Basmati works great as well. If you’re avoiding carbs, quinoa is an excellent alternative!
Chickpeas: If you want to switch things up, black beans or lentils can be good substitutes. They add protein and fiber, just like chickpeas!
Feta Cheese: For a different flavor kick, try goat cheese or even leave it out if you want a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor too!
How Do I Ensure the Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can sometimes be tricky, but here are some tips to get it just right. Follow these simple steps and your salmon will be flaky and delicious!
- Choose fillets that are similar in thickness for even cooking. If they’re uneven, cut thicker pieces down a bit.
- Keep a close eye on cooking time. Salmon usually cooks in about 15-20 minutes for 1-inch thick fillets. Look for that lovely flaky texture!
- If unsure, use a fork to test – it should flake easily without falling apart.
- For added flavor, consider basting with some of the cooking sauce in the pan halfway through cooking.
How to Make Easy One-Pan Mediterranean Salmon in 30 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors if possible)
- 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives, halved
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh oregano or parsley leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20-30 minutes for baking, making a total of about 30-40 minutes. Just enough time to get everything ready and enjoy a delicious meal without any hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when your dish is prepared!
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix them together well to create a simple yet flavorful spice blend!
3. Season the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and rub them all over with olive oil. Then, evenly sprinkle the spice mixture over the fillets, coating them thoroughly for great flavor.
4. Prepare the Rice Base:
In a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom. This rice will soak up all the delicious flavors!
5. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) over the rice. This will help cook the rice perfectly while adding extra flavor to the dish.
6. Layer the Veggies:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, drained chickpeas, and both types of olives on top of the rice. It should look colorful and enticing!
7. Place the Salmon on Top:
Now, lay the seasoned salmon fillets right on top of the rice and veggies. This allows the fish to steam beautifully as it cooks.
8. Bake the Dish:
Cover the pan loosely with foil to keep the moisture in, and place it in the oven. Bake it for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through and flake easily when tested with a fork.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and some fresh oregano or parsley leaves over the top for a fresh touch. It looks amazing!
10. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your vibrant and flavorful one-dish meal hot, right from the pan. Enjoy every bite of the Mediterranean goodness!
Bon appétit! Your cozy Mediterranean salmon dinner is all set to impress!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Mediterranean Salmon in 30 Minutes
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can use either! If using frozen salmon, make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quick thaw before cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Rice?
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try using quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both will work well, but adjust the cooking time slightly. Quinoa typically takes about the same time as rice, while cauliflower rice will need only about 10 minutes of cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can be delicious additions that cook quickly. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and layer them in with the other veggies.
