Mediterranean Salmon (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 2 lb salmon fillets (skin-on)
• 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)

For the Mediterranean Rice:

• 1.5 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 15 oz canned chickpeas, drained
• 6 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
• ⅓ cup kalamata olives, sliced
• ¼ cup green olives, sliced
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

For the Feta Cheese Mixture:

• 6 oz feta cheese, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (optional)
• Fresh oregano for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Salmon:

   • Heat a large skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium heat for about 4 minutes.
   • Rub the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried parsley, red chili flakes, and salt.
   • Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the hot skillet.
   • Place salmon fillets skin-side up and cook for 4 minutes on medium-high heat, undisturbed.
   • Flip the salmon, reduce heat to medium, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
   • Remove the salmon from the skillet and carefully separate the flesh from the skin. Discard or save the skins as desired.
   • Wipe the skillet clean with paper towels.

2. Prepare the Mediterranean Rice:

   • In the same skillet, add cooked rice, drained chickpeas, sliced cherry tomatoes, and sliced olives.
   • Stir in 3 tablespoons of lemon juice and heat on medium, mixing thoroughly.
   • Optionally, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Make the Feta Cheese Mixture:

   • In a medium bowl, combine cubed feta cheese with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon dried oregano, and chopped fresh oregano (if using). Mix to coat the feta evenly.

4. Assemble:

   • Stir half of the feta cheese mixture into the skillet with the rice.
   • Gently add the cooked salmon back into the skillet to reheat.
   • Top the salmon and rice with the remaining feta cheese mixture.
   • Garnish with fresh oregano before serving.

Enjoy this flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish!