Name: Mediterranean Sheet Pan Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 1/2 lb side of salmon (a large salmon filet); 2 small lemons, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup pitted assorted olives; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; a few marinated sweet or hot peppers (from the olive bar or equivalent); 2 tsp capers; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced, rings separated; 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; kosher salt, to taste; fresh cracked black pepper, to taste; 2 Tbsp salted butter, cut into small chunks (optional); fresh herbs such as oregano, rosemary, thyme, and/or sage, for garnish

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Introduction

This Mediterranean Sheet Pan Salmon is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Combining fresh salmon with bright lemon, olives, and cherry tomatoes, it brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.

A large, cooked salmon fillet lies flat on a white marbled surface, topped with bright, glossy slices of yellow and red cherry tomatoes, dark black olives, thin rings of light purple onion, and small capers scattered across. Around the salmon are charred lemon slices showing burnt edges, fresh green herbs including rosemary and sage, and more cherry tomatoes and olives spread loosely. Two silver forks press into the salmon, revealing a light pink, flaky inside beneath the slightly browned cooked outside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 1/2 lb side of salmon (a large salmon filet)
2 small lemons, thinly sliced
1/2 cup pitted assorted olives
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
A few marinated sweet or hot peppers
2 tsp capers
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced, rings separated
4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper
2 Tbsp salted butter, cut in small chunks (optional)
Fresh herbs such as oregano, rosemary, thyme, and/or sage

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out the salmon side. Tuck the thin tail end under to create a more even thickness so it cooks uniformly.
Step 2: Arrange the lemon slices on and around the salmon. Scatter the olives, cherry tomatoes, peppers, capers, and red onion rings evenly over the fish. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil all over and season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Dot with chunks of butter if you are using it.
Step 3: Bake the salmon for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness and size of your filet. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
Step 4: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, thyme, or sage before serving.

Tips & Variations

You can substitute the salmon with halibut, tilapia, trout, swordfish, tuna steaks, or even shrimp for a different twist.
Try wrapping the whole salmon and toppings in parchment paper for a moist, steamed effect instead of roasting directly on the pan.
Add thinly sliced fennel under the salmon as a flavor-packed bed, and use fennel fronds as a fresh garnish for an extra Mediterranean touch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid overcooking the salmon. For best taste and texture, enjoy fresh.

How to Serve

A cooked salmon fillet rests on parchment paper on a metal baking tray, with a light pink and lightly charred skin. On top, layers of thin lemon slices with a pale yellow color are scattered, some slightly charred. There are also purple-red onion rings, bright red and yellow cherry tomatoes, and a mix of dark black and brown olives spread across the salmon. Green herbs, including fresh rosemary and sage sprigs, add texture and color at the edges. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface, enhancing the colors of the salmon and toppings. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure even roasting and the best texture.

What side dishes pair well with Mediterranean Sheet Pan Salmon?

This dish goes wonderfully with simple sides like steamed rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad to keep the meal light and balanced.