If you are searching for a dish that’s not only vibrant and flavorful but also quick and nourishing, this Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta Topping Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Picture tender, perfectly baked salmon fillets, kissed with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, crowned with a creamy, tangy topping of ripe avocado and crumbly feta cheese. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feels like a celebratory meal but comes together in under 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your go-to dinner when you want something both impressive and effortless.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds a light green, oily dressing mixed with small green herb pieces and tiny yellow bits, creating a textured, marbled effect on the liquid surface. A silver spoon stands inside the bowl, partially immersed in the dressing with its handle pointing outwards. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, surrounded by a striped gray and white cloth and a wooden plate with green herbs peeking in at the top edge. The light shines softly, highlighting the shiny droplets of oil floating on top of the dressing photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta Topping Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in layering flavor, providing freshness, and delivering that irresistible creamy texture that makes every bite sing.

Salmon fillets: Choose skinless for ease, fresh or thawed; the star protein that bakes up juicy and tender.
Olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps keep the salmon moist during baking.
Lemon juice and zest: Brighten the dish with their fresh acidity and citrus aroma.
Fresh dill and chives: These herbs infuse an herby, slightly oniony lift that’s essential for freshness.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that unlock the flavors of all ingredients.
Paprika: Offers a subtle smoky warmth and a pop of color on top of the salmon.
Ripe avocado: Creamy texture and buttery flavor that perfectly compliments the crispness of the bake.
Feta cheese: Crumbled for a salty tang that contrasts beautifully with the mellow avocado.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta Topping Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven

Start off by setting your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit—that’s the perfect heat to cook salmon gently while sealing in moisture. Spray your baking dish lightly with non-stick spray to ensure an easy release once the salmon is done.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado-Feta Topping

In a small bowl, combine diced avocado, crumbled feta, chopped dill, and sliced chives. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over it and season with salt and pepper. Give it a gentle toss to combine all these luscious flavors. Pop it in the fridge to keep cool and let those flavors meld while you prep your salmon.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Pat your salmon fillets dry using a paper towel to remove any excess moisture—this helps achieve a nice bake. Place the fillets in your prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill, then brush this zesty mixture all over each fillet. Finish by seasoning with salt, black pepper, and paprika for that irresistible color and flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know the salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork but still looks moist and tender inside. The salmon should have a beautiful pink color and be packed with those wonderful herb and citrus notes.

Step 5: Serve with the Avocado-Feta Topping

Once baked, spoon the creamy avocado and feta topping over each fillet generously. This final touch brings a delightful coolness and tang that balances the warm, savory fish perfectly. It’s a flavor combination you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta Topping Recipe

A white plate holds three thick grilled salmon fillets with a reddish-orange spicy seasoning and slight charring on the edges, positioned side by side. Each fillet is topped with a chunky green avocado and white cottage cheese salad mixed with fresh green dill, sprinkled with black pepper. Small sprigs of dill decorate the plate and the salad. There are three lemon wedges arranged on the white marbled surface near the plate. A spoon with some avocado salad rests partially on the plate at the bottom left, and a dark blue cloth is placed on the lower right side. In the top left corner, a bowl with extra avocado and cottage cheese salad is partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of additional chopped dill or a few lemon wedges add brightness and visual appeal. If you like a little crunch, add toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds on top to elevate the texture contrast beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, vibrant sides. Think along the lines of a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or even a fluffy quinoa pilaf to keep things wholesome and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the salmon atop a bed of wild rice or couscous and drizzle some extra virgin olive oil around the dish. Another fun idea is to use hollowed-out lemon halves to serve the avocado-feta topping for an elegant touch that’ll impress any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the salmon and avocado-feta topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This helps keep the avocado fresh and prevents the salmon from becoming soggy. Consume within 2 days for best taste and quality.

Freezing

While thawed and cooked salmon can be frozen, it’s best to freeze before topping with avocado and feta, as those ingredients don’t freeze well. Place the seasoned, uncooked salmon fillets in a freezer-safe bag and try to use within 1 month for optimal freshness.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven or microwave until just heated through—avoid overheating as the fish can dry out. Add the avocado-feta topping fresh after reheating to maintain its creaminess and vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even baking and the best texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Keep the topping separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and texture.

Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?

Sure! Goat cheese is a great alternative that will also provide tanginess, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

What if I don’t like dill, can I use a different herb?

Definitely – fresh parsley or basil can be excellent substitutes that will give a different but still delicious herbal note.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a subtle spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

With its bright flavors, creamy topping, and succulent salmon, this Baked Salmon with Avocado & Feta Topping Recipe is a shining example of easy, healthy cooking that doesn’t skimp on taste. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your dinner rotation. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delicious in every bite.