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Fresh Mediterranean Salmon

Fresh Mediterranean Salmon
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This Fresh Mediterranean Salmon recipe combines succulent salmon fillets with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and vibrant Mediterranean herbs for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it offers a delightful balance of freshness, nutrition, and rich taste that appeals to the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Marinade

  • 4 fresh Mediterranean salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Herbs and Optional Additions

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or substitute oregano)
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the salmon: Rinse the fresh Mediterranean salmon fillets under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a crisp finish during cooking. Season both sides generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Marinate with olive oil, lemon, and garlic: In a small bowl, mix extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, finely minced garlic, and lemon zest. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets evenly. Let the fish sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes to soak up the fragrant Mediterranean flavors.
  3. Heat your pan or preheat the oven: For pan-searing, warm a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  4. Cook the salmon: If pan-searing, place the salmon skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving it to achieve a beautifully crispy skin. Flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily. If baking, place fillets skin-side down and roast for about 12-15 minutes depending on thickness.
  5. Add herbs and serve: Remove the salmon from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the top. Serve immediately with a final squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of brightness.

Notes

  • Choose fresh fish with firm flesh and a mild ocean scent, avoiding any fishy smell.
  • Pat the salmon dry to ensure a crispy skin when cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper searing instead of steaming.
  • Use a fish spatula for easy flipping without breaking the fillets.
  • Let the cooked salmon rest for a couple of minutes to lock in moisture.
  • Add finishing salt or lemon wedges just before serving for optimal freshness.
  • Marinate salmon for 15 to 30 minutes; avoid longer to prevent lemon juice from starting to ‘cook’ the fish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean salmon, healthy salmon recipe, baked salmon, pan-seared salmon, lemon garlic salmon, omega-3 rich meal, easy seafood dinner

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/fresh-mediterranean-salmon/