Description
Dive into Mediterranean magic with this salmon recipe that blends coastal flavors and fresh ingredients. Lemon, herbs, and olive oil create a simple yet elegant dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mediterranean Rice:
- 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) jasmine rice, cooked
- 15 ounces (425 grams) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 6 ounces (170 grams) cherry tomatoes (mixed colors), halved
- 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) sliced kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) sliced green olives
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
Cheese and Garnish:
- 6 ounces (170 grams) feta cheese, diced
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (optional)
- Fresh oregano sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm a skillet to medium heat for approximately 4 minutes, creating an ideal surface for searing the salmon with a golden-brown exterior.
- Massage the salmon with olive oil and sprinkle the aromatic spice blend, allowing the smoked paprika to infuse deep, vibrant flavors into the fish.
- Gently place the salmon in the skillet with skin facing upward, letting it develop a beautiful caramelized crust without disrupting its cooking process for 4 minutes.
- Carefully turn the salmon, lower the heat to prevent burning, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the fish transforms to a translucent, delicate texture that easily separates with a gentle fork press.
- Extract the salmon from the skillet, optionally removing the crispy skin – which can be enjoyed as a separate crunchy delicacy rich in nutritional benefits.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness, ensuring it doesn’t overcook and remains moist and tender.
- Use fresh wild-caught salmon for superior flavor and nutritional benefits, which enhances the overall taste profile.
- Remove pin bones before cooking to prevent any unexpected texture interruptions and ensure a smooth dining experience.
- Opt for skin-on salmon to lock in moisture and create a deliciously crispy exterior that adds textural contrast.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 70mg