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
Scale
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
