Quick Easy Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado Feta
Recipe Introduction: Salmon Sensations!
Ever get that "what's for dinner" dread? Me too! This Quick Baked Salmon with Creamy topping recipe is my absolute go-to.
It's bursting with Mediterranean flavors that'll make you feel like you're on holiday.
Avocado Feta Salmon: A Taste of the Med
This isn't your typical salmon dish, oh no. It's inspired by simple Mediterranean cooking. Think flaky salmon, creamy avocado, salty feta, and zingy lemon.
This Creamy Salmon Recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. It serves two, perfect for a romantic dinner, or a satisfying meal for yourself, go on, you deserve it!
Why This Salmon Rocks
Let's talk benefits. Salmon is packed with omega-3s, brilliant for your brain and heart. This Healthy Salmon Dinner is ideal for a quick weeknight meal.
It's so versatile. Serve it with a side salad or some roasted veggies. This Quick Salmon Bake is super easy, even a clueless homecook like me can nail it!
From Sea to Supper: The Ingredients
Ready to dive in? You'll need some gorgeous Salmon Fillets . Don't forget a perfectly Ripe Avocado for that creamy magic.
Plus, a few other bits to make it sing. More details on that in the full recipe.
Right then, let's dive into what you'll need for this Quick Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado and Feta. Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward, so don't stress! We're aiming for Easy Weeknight Meals , and this totally fits the bill.
I had never thought that it would be so easy, but it is in fact one of the most Healthy Salmon Dinner I've ever made.
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Here's the lowdown on what you'll need. Precise measurements coming right up!
- Salmon Fillets : Two fillets, about 4-6 oz (115-170g) each. Quality matters! Look for Salmon Dishes that are bright pink and firm to the touch. Avoid anything that smells too fishy. I once bought some dodgy salmon and... well, let's just say the cat wouldn't even eat it!
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Extra virgin is always a good shout.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) .
- Paprika: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) . Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Freshly squeezed, always. That bottled stuff is just... wrong.
- Ripe avocado: One, pitted and diced. It needs to be soft but not mushy. Think perfect guacamole consistency.
- Feta cheese: 1/4 cup (30g) , crumbled. Go for a good quality feta for the best flavour.
- Red onion: 2 tbsp (30ml) , finely diced.
- Fresh cilantro (coriander): 1 tbsp (15ml) , chopped.
- Lemon juice: Another 1 tbsp (15ml) . Lemon is your friend in this recipe!
- Red pepper flakes: A pinch. Optional, but I reckon a little kick never hurt anyone.
Remember, it's all about the fresh Mediterranean flavours with this Avocado Feta Salmon .
Seasoning Notes
Let's talk about spicing things up.
For the Baked Salmon , garlic powder and paprika are your base. Salt and pepper are non-negotiable. A good squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up.
For the avocado topping, the cilantro and red pepper flakes add a lovely vibrancy. If you're not a cilantro fan (I know some people aren't!), parsley works too.
Play with the lemon to make the flavours pop.
Equipment Needed
You don't need loads of fancy gadgets for this Quick Salmon Bake , thank goodness.
All you will need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional, makes clean-up a doddle)
- Small bowl
- Fork
Easy peasy! Let's get cracking.
Right, let's dive into making this Quick Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado ! Honestly, even I can manage this one after a long day. It's so easy it's almost criminal.
Prep Steps
Essential Mise en Place
First things first, get everything ready. Chop your ripe avocado and red onion. Crumble the feta. Squeeze that lemon juice.
You know, the usual chef-y stuff. If you are using Salmon Fillets with the skin on, dry them with a paper towel.
Time Saving Organization Tips
I usually prep the avocado topping while the oven is preheating. Saves time, innit? You could even do it the night before if you're feeling super organised.
Just keep the ripe avocado covered in the fridge to prevent browning.
Safety Reminders
Watch out for those pesky bones in the Salmon Fillets ! They can be a right pain. And of course, don't set the kitchen on fire.
step-by-step Process
- Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
- Place the Salmon Fillets on a baking sheet. Parchment paper makes cleanup a doddle.
- Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add lemon juice.
- Bake for 12- 15 minutes . The salmon should flake easily with a fork.
- Gently mash the diced ripe avocado with feta, red onion, cilantro, and lemon juice.
- Top the Baked Salmon with the avocado mixture.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Healthy Salmon Dinner !
Pro Tips
Expert Techniques
Want extra crispy skin? Pat the Salmon Fillets completely dry with paper towels. It makes a huge difference! And don't overcook the salmon. It's the worst.
Common Mistakes
I once forgot the lemon juice. Never again. It really brings the whole dish together. Also, don't use a rock hard avocado. Wait until it's actually ripe avocado .
make-ahead Options
You can make the Creamy Salmon Recipe topping ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge. The baked salmon is best served straight away.
This Mediterranean Salmon recipe is a game changer. Its creamy topping and Easy Weeknight Meals like these make life that little bit easier.
Plus, this Quick Salmon Bake is packed with nutrients. If you like Salmon, this is a great addition to your repertoire of Salmon Dishes , and especially, a great way to get an Avocado Feta Salmon recipe on your table.
Try it you won't regret it!
Right then, let's talk about making this Quick Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado and Feta even easier and tastier. I've had a few kitchen mishaps and eureka moments along the way.
Honestly, cooking is all about experimenting. You know?
Recipe Notes
This Creamy Salmon Recipe is super flexible. Don't feel you have to stick to the letter! Here are a few ideas to make it your own.
Serving Up the Goodness
Plating and presentation ideas
Honestly, I like to keep it simple. A few sprigs of fresh dill make it look fancy. For a bit of sunshine, add a lemon wedge.
Complementary sides or beverages
This Healthy Salmon Dinner goes brilliantly with a crisp side salad. Roasted asparagus is a winner too. Feeling fancy? A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice.
A light salad will perfectly balance this rich Avocado Feta Salmon.
Storing Like a Pro
Refrigeration guidelines
Got leftovers? (If you're lucky!) Pop the Baked Salmon in the fridge. It'll be good for up to 2 days.
Keep it in an airtight container, like you would with a pot of gold.
Freezing options (if applicable)
Freezing cooked salmon isn't ideal. The texture can change. But if you must, make sure you wrap it properly. Then again, it is so quick to cook, it is really best cooked fresh.
Reheating instructions
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. Don't overcook it!. You want it warm, not leather. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice!
Remixing the Recipe
1-2 dietary adaptations
Need a dairy-free version? Ditch the feta! Add some toasted pine nuts for some crunch. Want to spice it up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Salmon Fillets before baking.
Seasonal ingredient swaps
No avocado? Seriously? You can use a creamy cucumber and yogurt sauce instead. This would make a great Mediterranean Salmon option. If you don't have cilantro, parsley is a decent sub.
Nutrition Lowdown
Simplified nutrition information
This Quick Salmon Bake is packed with protein and healthy fats. Avocado adds good fats and vitamins. It's a winner.
One serving has roughly 450 calories. It is also full of omega-3 fatty acids.
Key health benefits
Salmon is great for your heart and brain! A study showed eating salmon twice a week reduces the risk of stroke. It is also a good source of vitamin D.
This Easy Weeknight Meals is a tasty way to eat healthily. Don't be afraid to experiment. Give this Quick Baked Salmon with Creamy avocado a go.
You might surprise yourself, and honestly, you'll love it. You know?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the salmon from drying out when baking?
Nobody wants salmon drier than the Sahara! The key is not to overcook it. Bake until it flakes easily with a fork, usually around 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Also, consider leaving the skin on, as it helps retain moisture. A quick drizzle of olive oil before baking also helps!
Can I make the creamy avocado and feta topping ahead of time for this Quick Baked Salmon with Creamy recipe?
While you can make the topping ahead, avocado has a bit of a reputation for browning, like a forgotten apple slice. If you must prep ahead, toss the avocado with extra lemon juice and press a piece of cling film directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure.
Ideally, make it just before serving for the freshest flavor and brightest colour.
What are some good substitutions for feta cheese in the avocado topping?
Not a feta fan, eh? No worries! For a similar salty and tangy flavour, try goat cheese, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan. If you're after a dairy-free option, you could add some toasted pine nuts for texture and a subtle flavour, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour.
How long does leftover baked salmon with the avocado topping last in the fridge?
Leftover salmon is great for lunch the next day, but the avocado topping is best eaten fresh. Store the salmon separately from the avocado topping if possible. The salmon itself should be fine in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add fresh avocado topping just before serving for the best quality.
A little bit of lemon on the salmon can keep it fresh.
Is Quick Baked Salmon with Creamy Avocado and Feta a healthy meal?
Absolutely! Salmon is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for your heart and brain. Avocado is a great source of healthy fats, and feta adds a bit of protein and calcium. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as avocados are high in calories.
Pair it with a side salad and you've got yourself a winner winner, salmon dinner!
Can I add different herbs or spices to the salmon before baking?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different flavours. Dill, parsley, or even a touch of smoked paprika would all be delicious on salmon. A little garlic powder and onion powder goes a long way too.
Have fun and create your own signature salmon seasoning blend - think of yourself as the Heston Blumenthal of baked salmon!
Quick Easy Baked Salmon With Creamy Avocado Feta
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 5g |
