Summer Salmon Skillet Recipe
Introduction
This Summer Salmon Skillet is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender salmon fillets with juicy tomatoes and a touch of spicy harissa. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it bakes in one skillet for easy preparation and cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4 (5- to 6-oz.) center-cut skinless salmon fillets
- 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. sweet paprika
- 2 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
- 1 tbsp. harissa paste
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 8 oz. yellow and red grape or cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp. crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1 tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Step 1: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and place a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet on the rack. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Step 2: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season all over with ground cumin, sweet paprika, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Rub one side of each fillet with the harissa paste.
- Step 3: In a medium bowl, toss together the finely chopped shallot, sliced garlic, grape or cherry tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and toss again to combine.
- Step 4: Using an oven mitt or dry kitchen towel, carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Drizzle in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Arrange the salmon fillets in the skillet, harissa side up, then scatter the tomato mixture evenly around the fish.
- Step 5: Return the skillet to the oven and bake until the salmon flesh flakes easily with a fork and the tomatoes are softened, about 9 to 11 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the salmon and tomatoes with crumbled feta or goat cheese and the chopped fresh dill. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder heat level, reduce the amount of harissa paste or omit it altogether.
- Use a mix of colorful tomatoes to add visual appeal and sweetness to the dish.
- Serve this skillet with warm crusty bread or over a bed of couscous for a complete meal.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be substituted for dill depending on your preference.
Storage
Store any leftover salmon and tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out the fish.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salmon with skin on?
Yes, you can use salmon with the skin on. Cooking with the skin helps keep the fillets moist. Just place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet and adjust cooking time if needed.
What can I substitute for harissa paste?
If you don’t have harissa paste, a mix of chili powder and smoked paprika with a splash of olive oil can provide a similar smoky heat. You can also use sriracha or another chili sauce, adjusting amounts to taste.
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Summer Salmon Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant Summer Salmon Skillet is a simple yet flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender skinless salmon fillets seasoned with cumin, paprika, and harissa paste, roasted alongside sweet cherry tomatoes, shallots, and garlic. Finished with crumbled feta and fresh dill, this dish offers a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and fresh Mediterranean flavors, ideal for a quick and healthy summer dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasonings
- 4 (5- to 6-oz.) center-cut skinless salmon fillets
- 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. sweet paprika
- 2 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
- 1 tbsp. harissa paste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 8 oz. yellow and red grape or cherry tomatoes
Oils and Toppings
- 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp. crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1 tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and place a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet on the rack. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure the skillet is hot for searing the salmon and roasting the vegetables.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Season all sides with ground cumin, sweet paprika, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Rub one side of each fillet with the harissa paste to add a spicy, smoky flavor.
- Toss the Vegetables: In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped shallot, thinly sliced garlic, and grape or cherry tomatoes. Add 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, then toss everything to evenly coat and season the mixture.
- Heat Oil in the Skillet and Arrange Ingredients: Using an oven mitt or dry kitchen towel, carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the skillet. Immediately arrange the salmon fillets harissa-side up in the skillet, then scatter the tomato mixture around the salmon, distributing it evenly.
- Bake Until Cooked: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the salmon flesh flakes easily with a fork and the tomatoes have softened, indicating that they are perfectly roasted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the salmon and tomatoes with crumbled feta or goat cheese and freshly chopped dill. Serve hot for a delicious and colorful summer meal.
Notes
- Choosing skinless salmon fillets helps the harissa flavor to shine and offers a tender texture.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of harissa paste or omit it entirely.
- Use a well-seasoned cast-iron or stainless steel skillet to get the best sear on the salmon.
- For a complete meal, serve with a side of couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Fresh herbs like dill can be substituted with parsley or basil depending on availability and taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: salmon skillet, summer salmon recipe, baked salmon with tomatoes, harissa salmon, healthy seafood dinner, Mediterranean salmon, one-pan salmon dish
