Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta Recipe

If you are looking for a refreshing yet comforting dinner idea, this Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta is an absolute game-changer. It combines tender, juicy salmon fillets baked to perfection with a creamy, tangy avocado and feta topping bursting with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. This dish balances rich and bright flavors beautifully, making it both satisfying and light. Plus, it comes together fairly quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential. Each one adds something special, whether it’s rich creaminess, fresh herbal notes, or zesty brightness, contributing to the wonderful harmony of flavors and textures in this dish.

• 4 salmon fillets (without skin): Choose fresh, firm salmon for the best texture and flavor.
• 2 Tbsp olive oil: Adds healthy fats and helps keep the salmon moist during baking.
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and pairs perfectly with both the salmon and avocado.
• 1 tsp lemon zest: Provides a subtle, aromatic citrus kick.
• 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped: Its herbal freshness complements the fish wonderfully.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• Black pepper, to taste: Adds mild heat and complexity.
• Paprika, to taste: Brings a subtle earthiness and vibrant color to the salmon.
• 1 large avocado, diced: Offers a creamy contrast to the flaky salmon.
• ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds tangy, salty creaminess to the topping.
• 1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Intensifies the herbaceous notes in the topping.
• 1 Tbsp fresh chives, sliced: Provides a mild oniony crunch and bright green color.
• ½ of a lemon, juiced: Keeps the avocado topping fresh and zesty.
• Salt, to taste: Balances the flavors in the avocado-feta mix.
• Black pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall taste with a gentle bite.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, give your baking dish a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray. This small step means your salmon won’t stick and cleanup will be so much easier.

Step 2: Whip Up the Avocado-Feta Topping

While the oven is heating, mix together diced avocado, crumbled feta, chopped dill, and sliced chives in a small bowl. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance — this delicious topping will be the crown jewel on your salmon. Once ready, cover and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture—this helps them bake evenly. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill together. Brush this mixture generously over each fillet, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste. This simple marinade infuses the fish with bright, herbaceous notes and a little smoky warmth from the paprika.

Step 4: Time to Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye out for the salmon to become opaque and easily flake with a fork—this ensures your fish is perfectly cooked but still moist and tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, spoon the chilled avocado-feta topping generously over each salmon fillet. The contrast of the warm, flaky salmon with the creamy, tangy topping is nothing short of divine.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta

Garnishes

For a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle extra chopped dill or chives on top. A few lemon wedges on the side add a bright pop and let everyone customize their citrus level. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides—think a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus seasoned with garlic. Steamed quinoa or fluffy couscous also make an excellent base to soak up any extra avocado-feta sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can serve each salmon fillet on a bed of mixed greens or even wrap it up in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. Plating it with colorful roasted veggies adds a vibrant, healthy touch and makes your meal look as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this delightful Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta, store the salmon and avocado topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the topping fresh and prevents the avocado from browning too quickly.

Freezing

While salmon freezes well, avoid freezing the avocado-feta mixture as it will lose its texture and freshness. Freeze just the cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When thawed, it’s best used in salads or sandwiches.

Reheating

Reheat the salmon gently in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Once warmed through, add the avocado-feta topping fresh to maintain its vibrant flavor and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use salmon with skin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just keep the skin on while baking to help lock in moisture. You can serve with the skin on or remove it easily after cooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, absolutely. All the ingredients used in this Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I substitute the feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese for a creamy tang or even ricotta for a milder flavor. Just be mindful that the taste and texture will be slightly different.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh has turned opaque all the way through. Overcooking can dry it out, so watch closely after 10 minutes.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can prepare the topping a day ahead and keep it chilled. The salmon is best cooked fresh, but you can season it earlier and refrigerate for a couple of hours before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want a meal that feels both indulgent and healthful. It’s simple to prep, packed with fresh flavors, and looks stunning on the plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how delicious healthy eating can be!

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