Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe

The Juiciest Feta and Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe for Dinner

Mediterranean kitchens have long celebrated this vibrant feta and herb crusted salmon recipe that promises a delightful twist on seafood.

Crisp herbs and tangy cheese create a magical coating that seals in the fish’s natural moisture.

Salmon turns into a culinary masterpiece when you generously sprinkle crumbled feta across its tender surface.

Delicate dill and zesty parsley mingle with salty cheese, forming an irresistible golden crust during baking.

Fresh ingredients elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making each bite a celebration of coastal flavors.

Weeknight dinners or special gatherings will sparkle with this simple yet impressive plate that comes together in minutes.

Prepare to impress everyone at your table with this Mediterranean-inspired salmon sensation.

Why Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon Is So Flavorful

  • Whip Up a Quick Gourmet Meal: This salmon recipe transforms an ordinary fish into a restaurant-quality dish in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy home cooks craving something spectacular.
  • Boost Nutrition with Flavor: Packed with protein from salmon and probiotics from feta and Greek yogurt, this dish delivers a powerful nutritional punch while tasting absolutely delicious.
  • Customize for Every Palate: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences, you can swap ingredients or adjust herb combinations to match personal taste without compromising the recipe's core deliciousness.
  • Impress with Minimal Effort: Despite looking elegant and complex, this recipe requires basic cooking skills and minimal preparation, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced home chefs wanting to create a stunning meal.

All You Need For Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon

Seafood Base:
  • Salmon Fillets: Fresh, tender fish that serves as the main protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Wild-caught or farm-raised salmon works well.
Herb and Cheese Topping:
  • Feta Cheese, Greek Yogurt: Creamy, tangy combination that creates a rich and flavorful crust. Opt for high-quality, authentic feta for best results.
  • Parsley, Dill, Oregano: Fresh herbs that add brightness and Mediterranean-inspired flavor. Choose vibrant, fragrant herbs for maximum taste.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Olive Oil: Helps to moisten the salmon and add richness. Extra virgin olive oil provides the best flavor.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth to the herb mixture.
  • Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Provides bright, citrusy notes that complement the fish. Fresh lemons are key for maximum flavor.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Panko (Optional): Adds extra crispiness to the herb crust if desired.

Cooking Guide For Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon

Step 1: Awaken the Salmon

Crank up your oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Grab a baking sheet and dress it with parchment paper or give it a quick spray of cooking oil. Grab your salmon fillets and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle a splash of olive oil over each piece, then sprinkle with:
  • Salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Step 2: Craft the Creamy Herbal Topping

In a mixing bowl, create a magical blend by combining:
  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Tangy Greek yogurt
  • Minced garlic
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Bright lemon zest
  • Chopped parsley
  • Feathery dill
  • Fragrant oregano
  • Crunchy panko breadcrumbs

Stir everything together until it forms a delightful, creamy mixture.

Step 3: Transform the Salmon

Lovingly spread the herbal feta mixture over each salmon fillet, pressing it down gently so it hugs the fish. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the magic happen. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon becomes flaky and tender. Want an extra golden touch? Switch to broil for a quick 2-minute finale.

Step 4: Present Your Culinary Masterpiece

Sprinkle some extra fresh herbs on top for a pop of color. Serve with bright lemon wedges on the side, inviting your guests to squeeze a bit of sunshine over their fish. Enjoy your restaurant-worthy meal straight from your own kitchen!

Top Tips For Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon

  • Moisture Management: Pat salmon fillets completely dry before adding oil to ensure a crispy, golden crust that sticks perfectly.
  • Herb Harmony: Chop fresh herbs finely to distribute their flavors evenly throughout the feta mixture, maximizing taste in every bite.
  • Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to check salmon's internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe, perfectly cooked fish without overcooking.
  • Customize Crust Options: Swap panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal for low-carb and gluten-sensitive diets without compromising texture.
  • Flavor Boost: Add red pepper flakes or za'atar to the feta mixture for an extra kick of spice and complexity in the herb crust.

How To Store Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon Properly

  • Refrigerate leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Store the fish carefully to maintain its delicate texture and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Keep the salmon in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back shelf.
  • Gently wrap the fish in plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container to preserve its flavor and prevent odors from spreading.
  • When reheating, use low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out or becoming tough.
  • Consume refrigerated salmon within 48 hours for the best taste and quality.
  • Avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy feta crust may separate and lose its original texture when thawed.

Best Sides With Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complements the tangy feta and delicate salmon, cutting through the richness while enhancing the herb flavors.
  • Create a Mediterranean Side Salad: Toss together a quick Greek-style salad with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and a light olive oil dressing to match the Mediterranean profile of the salmon.
  • Serve with Herbed Quinoa: Prepare quinoa with fresh herbs like parsley and dill, mirroring the herb crust and providing a protein-packed, light accompaniment that absorbs the salmon's delicious juices.
  • Add Roasted Lemon Asparagus: Roast asparagus with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil to complement the citrusy notes in the salmon and provide a fresh, crisp vegetable side.

Ways To Change Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon

  • Mediterranean Pesto Salmon: Replace the feta herb mixture with a zesty homemade pesto using basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil for a rich Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Spicy Cajun Salmon Crust: Swap herbs with Cajun seasoning, adding cayenne pepper and smoked paprika to create a bold, fiery coating that brings Louisiana-style heat to the dish.
  • Greek-Inspired Yogurt Crust: Enhance the yogurt base with crumbled kalamata olives, extra red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of za'atar spice blend for an authentic Greek-inspired seafood experience.
  • Nutty Almond Crusted Salmon: Incorporate ground almonds into the feta mixture, adding a crunchy texture and nutty undertone that complements the salmon's delicate flavor.

Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon FAQs

  • What makes the feta herb crust special?

The feta herb crust combines tangy feta cheese, fresh herbs like parsley and dill, and zesty lemon for a bright, Mediterranean-inspired topping that adds incredible flavor and texture to the salmon.

  • Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While salmon works best, you can easily substitute with white fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass. Just adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

  • Is this recipe considered healthy?

Yes! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and the herb crust uses Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, making it a nutritious and protein-rich meal that’s both delicious and good for you.

  • How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout. Cooking time is typically 12-15 minutes at 400F, and the fish should reach an internal temperature of 145F for food safety.

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Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe

Feta And Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mediterranean flavors elevate this feta and herb crusted salmon recipe into a culinary masterpiece. Fresh herbs and tangy feta create a crisp, elegant coating that brings coastal Greek charm directly to your plate.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each)

Cheese and Dairy:

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch, optional)

Instructions

  1. Gently cleanse salmon fillets with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp coating. Massage olive oil across the surface and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Create a vibrant herb-infused topping by combining crumbled feta cheese with tangy Greek yogurt. Incorporate minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, delicate lemon zest, chopped parsley, feathery dill, robust oregano, and crunchy panko breadcrumbs until thoroughly blended.
  3. Carefully spread the herbed feta mixture across each salmon fillet, gently pressing to encourage adhesion. Ensure an even, generous layer covers the entire fish surface.
  4. Position the prepared salmon in a preheated oven at 400F. Roast for approximately 12-15 minutes, monitoring for a delicate flake when tested with a fork. For an enhanced golden exterior, activate the broiler for an additional 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  5. Transfer the perfectly cooked salmon to a serving platter. Scatter additional fresh herbs across the top and accompany with bright lemon wedges, allowing guests to enhance flavors with a zesty squeeze.

Notes

  • Moisture Matters: Pat salmon fillets thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a crispy, golden crust that adheres perfectly to the fish.
  • Customize Your Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or chives to personalize the flavor profile and match your taste preferences.
  • Yogurt Swap Option: For dairy-free diets, replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt to maintain the creamy texture.
  • Precision Cooking: Use a meat thermometer to check salmon’s internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C) to guarantee perfectly cooked, moist fish every time.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan

Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.

Education

New York University

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Journalism
  • Focus: Combined foundational journalism training with deep dives into global food traditions, restaurant criticism, and the cultural role of cuisine.

Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.

Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.

Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.

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