Mediterranean Salmon Rice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious meal. It’s loaded with healthy omega-3s from the salmon and fiber from chickpeas, making it both delicious and satisfying. The vibrant Mediterranean ingredients—like feta cheese, olives, and fresh lemon juice—make it a burst of flavors that will please everyone. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

• 2 lb salmon fillets

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon dried parsley

• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 1.5 cups cooked jasmine rice

• 15 oz canned chickpeas, drained

• 6 oz cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

• ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, sliced

• ¼ cup green olives, sliced

• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 6 oz feta cheese, diced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (optional)

• Fresh oregano for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon with smoked paprika, oregano, parsley, chili flakes, and salt. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, and cook the salmon skin-side up for 4 minutes. Flip it, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 5 more minutes. Remove from heat, and set aside.

2. Make the Rice Mixture: In the same skillet, add cooked rice, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, olives, and lemon juice. Stir and cook over medium heat for a few minutes. Add olive oil if needed and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare Feta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.

4. Assemble the Dish: Place the rice mixture on a serving plate. Top with the salmon, then spoon the feta mixture on top. Garnish with fresh oregano.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Different Fish: You can substitute the salmon with other fish like trout, halibut, or cod.

• Grains: Swap the jasmine rice for couscous, orzo, or small-shaped pasta for a different texture.

• Veggies: Feel free to add or replace vegetables like artichokes, bell peppers, or spinach to customize the dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the salmon rice mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the salmon is best fresh, you can prepare the rice and feta mixture ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Jasmine rice works well for its fragrant aroma, but you can also use basmati or brown rice.

Can I substitute the feta cheese?

If you don’t like feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese or any other crumbly cheese.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this without chickpeas?

Yes, you can omit the chickpeas or replace them with another type of bean or vegetable.

Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it?

Yes, grilling is a great option for cooking the salmon and adds a smoky flavor.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

You can add more red chili flakes or even some chopped fresh chilies to increase the spice level.

Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

You can use canned salmon, but fresh fillets are recommended for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Salmon Rice is a versatile, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner. With fresh ingredients and a simple one-pan preparation, this recipe offers a quick, satisfying meal that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your health.

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Mediterranean Salmon Rice Recipe

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Mediterranean Salmon Rice is a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy nights. This flavorful dish combines perfectly seared salmon with a colorful rice mix of chickpeas, olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese, all topped with fresh oregano and a burst of lemon. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a one-pan wonder loaded with protein, fiber, and Mediterranean flavors. Ideal for anyone seeking a nutritious, satisfying dish that's both quick and delicious.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Seared
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

2 lb salmon fillets

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon dried parsley

¼ teaspoon red chili flakes

¼ teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1.5 cups cooked jasmine rice

15 oz canned chickpeas, drained

6 oz cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

⅓ cup Kalamata olives, sliced

¼ cup green olives, sliced

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

6 oz feta cheese, diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

¼ teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (optional)

Fresh oregano for garnish

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Instructions

• Cook the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon with smoked paprika, oregano, parsley, chili flakes, and salt. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan, and cook the salmon skin-side up for 4 minutes. Flip it, reduce heat to medium, and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

• Make the Rice Mixture: In the same skillet, add cooked rice, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, olives, and lemon juice. Stir and cook over medium heat for a few minutes. Add olive oil if needed and season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Prepare Feta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.

• Assemble the Dish: Place the rice mixture on a serving plate. Top with the salmon, then spoon the feta mixture on top. Garnish with fresh oregano.

Notes

• You can swap the salmon for other fish like trout, halibut, or cod.

• If you prefer a different texture, try couscous, orzo, or small pasta instead of jasmine rice.

• The dish can be customized with additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes.