🐟 Mediterranean Baked Salmon with Olive & Caper Tapenade
🥣 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
🐟 For the Salmon
2 salmon fillets (about 150–200 g each)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
🫒 For the Olive & Caper Tapenade
¼ cup Kalamata or green olives, finely chopped
1 tbsp capers, rinsed
1 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
🍋 For Garnish
Lemon wedges
Extra parsley or basil
👩🍳 Instructions
✅ Step 1: Prepare the Tapenade
In a small bowl, combine chopped olives, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, lemon zest, and olive oil.
Mix well and set aside.
✅ Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Place salmon fillets skin side down.
Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
✅ Step 3: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes (depending on thickness) until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Do not overbake — salmon should remain juicy.
✅ Step 4: Top with Tapenade
Remove salmon from the oven and spoon the olive–caper tapenade generously over the top.
Drizzle a little extra olive oil and garnish with parsley or basil.
✅ Step 5: Serve
Serve warm with:
🥗 Greek salad or roasted vegetables
🍚 Quinoa, couscous, or brown rice
🍋 Extra lemon wedges on the side
💚 Health & Nutrition Benefits
| Ingredient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Salmon | Rich in omega-3 fatty acids — promotes heart and brain health. |
| Olive oil | Reduces inflammation and supports healthy cholesterol. |
| Olives & capers | Contain antioxidants and add beneficial minerals. |
| Lemon & herbs | Aid digestion and boost immunity. |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | High in lycopene, a potent antioxidant. |
✅ Healthy Tips
🌿 Use wild-caught salmon for better flavor and nutrition.
🍅 Add chopped cherry tomatoes or spinach under the fish for a one-pan meal.
🧊 Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days — great for salads or wraps.
🔥 For extra crispness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.


