Our Baked Salmon is about to become your new go-to for a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious meal. We put a spin on classic baked salmon that’s super easy but packs a punch of irresistible flavor into the simple dish!

A bowl of white rice with za'atar baked salmon and avocado salsa.

What is Baked Salmon?

Baked salmon is a classic dish — we love its simplicity and the delicious, flaky texture of the fish when cooked just right! It’s a versatile meal that can be dressed up or down, seasoned in countless ways, and paired with a variety of sides — we particularly love to top it with our avocado salsa

What makes this baked salmon recipe unique is the addition of za’atar seasoning. Za’atar, a vibrant Middle Eastern spice blend, infuses the salmon with a unique mix of tangy, herby flavors that elevate this dish from ordinary to absolutely extraordinary. The za’atar not only adds a burst of flavor but also gives the salmon a beautiful, aromatic crust. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal, this za’atar-infused baked salmon, with its bold flavors and amazing aroma, is sure to be a show-stopper!

Za'atar seasoned baked salmon on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Ingredients You Need

  • Salmon Fillets, Skinless – These fillets are deliciously rich in flavor and loaded with healthy fats, perfect for baking to tender and flaky perfection!
  • Olive Oil – A little drizzle helps to keep the salmon nice and moist.
  • Za’atar Seasoning – This Middle Eastern spice mix brings a burst of unique, earthy flavors, giving our salmon that extra zing — it’s the secret to making this salmon super special! 
  • Cracked Black Pepper – Just a bit of pepper adds the slightest kick of heat.
  • Salt – A simple pinch or two of salt enhances the natural flavors of the salmon and other ingredients.

How to Make Baked Salmon

  1. Prepare the Salmon. Once you have placed the salmon fillets on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pour the olive oil over the top before seasoning with za’atar, salt, and pepper. 
  2. Cook. Place the salmon in the oven and bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  3. Serve. Allow the salmon to cool slightly before serving.

Variations

  • Lemon Garlic – Add thin slices of lemon and a generous drizzle of olive oil over the salmon before baking. Sprinkle with minced garlic and fresh parsley for a zesty, aromatic dish.
  • Cajun Spiced Salmon – Rub the salmon with a Cajun seasoning mix, olive oil, and a bit of lime juice. This variation adds a spicy, smoky flavor that’s perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat.
  • Herb-Crusted – Mix breadcrumbs with fresh herbs or dried seasoning. Press the mixture onto the salmon fillets and bake. This adds a crispy, flavorful crust to the tender fish.
  • Mediterranean – Top the salmon with sliced tomatoes, olives, and capers. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for a dish inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean.
  • Fish – Jazz up other mildly flavored varieties of fish with the same ingredients as this recipe calls for.

Can I Store Leftovers? 

You can absolutely store this salmon and just reheat it when you’re ready to eat or flake the cooked salmon over a simple salad. 

Once the salmon has cooled to room temperature, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

To freeze the salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. 

More Seafood-Based Recipes

Searching for more satisfying recipes for seafood? We have plenty of recipes for seafood that you’re bound to love! 

Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies

Shrimp Kofta Meatballs

Shrimp Bake in Tomato Sauce

Mediterranean Tilapia

Close up view of a bowl of rice with za'atar baked salmon and avocado salsa.

A bowl of white rice with baked salmon and avocado salsa.

Baked Salmon with Za’atar and Avocado Salsa

3.67 from 3 votes
Author: Food Dolls
Servings: 4 servings
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Learn how to make flakey baked salmon with za'atar and Egyptian avocado salsa for a healthy meal full of flavor!

Ingredients  

  • 4 salmon fillets without skin
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons zaatar
  • Cracked black pepper to taste
  • Salt to taste
  • Egyptian avocado salsa

Instructions 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
    4 salmon fillets
  • Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon fillets.
    2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • Sprinkle the za'atar evenly over each fillet.
    2 Tablespoons zaatar
  • Season with cracked black pepper and salt to taste.
    Cracked black pepper, Salt
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Once the salmon is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
  • Spoon the Egyptian avocado salsa over each salmon fillet.
    Egyptian avocado salsa
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 349kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 78mg | Potassium: 971mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 181IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 61mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Like this recipe?Please leave a comment!

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Meet Alia & Radwa

Welcome to Food Dolls! Weโ€™re so glad you found us. We are Alia and Radwa, sisters who want to share simple and easy recipes with you. We hope you find recipes here that you enjoy making as much as we do! Learn more about us!

3.67 from 3 votes

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7 Comments

  1. 1 star
    Hi Food Dolls. I am really enjoying your videos as well as trying out your recipes. Thank you so much for sharing. I am wondering what is the brand name of the โ€œfancyโ€œ vegetable chopper that you are using in this video (Zaatar Baked Salmon With Avacado Salsa) as I want to purchase one. Thank you.

  2. 5 stars
    Delicious! But I always prefer it when the ingredients in the recipes match the photos otherwise it’s misleading and confusing. It’s also easier for the shopping list. Here for example, basil, mint, rice were missing… for it to match

  3. Excited to make this for diner tomorrow night!
    The link to the avocado salsa didnโ€™t work. What else is pictured in the dish-mint and basil? Iโ€™m trying to make my grocery list and donโ€™t want to miss anything. Thanks!!