Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes

This easy baked salmon with cherry tomatoes is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for any weeknight dinner. The salmon fillets are baked with juicy cherry tomatoes in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh thyme. Topped with Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor, this dish is both flavorful and simple to prepare. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a great option for busy days, and it’s naturally low-carb and gluten-free. The perfect combination of tender salmon, sweet tomatoes, and savory seasonings will make this dish a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 3 salmon fillets (about 4 oz each)
• 1 pint Pure Flavor Azuca red cherry tomatoes
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ cup butter
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Lightly grease a cast iron skillet (or any oven-safe pan) with olive oil. Arrange the salmon fillets in the pan, then place the cherry tomatoes around the salmon.
3. In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave until fully liquefied. Add the salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, thyme, and minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring to combine.
4. Pour the seasoned butter mixture over the salmon and tomatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the salmon and tomatoes.
6. Bake the dish uncovered for 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145℉.
7. For a golden finish, broil the dish for an additional 3 minutes to slightly crisp the top.
8. Serve and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salmon with cherry tomatoes recipe is a delicious and quick way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. The combination of flaky salmon, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering dish. The Parmesan cheese adds a perfect finishing touch, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in one pan, minimizing cleanup while delivering incredible flavor.

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Tips

• Salmon Cooking Tip: Check the internal temperature of the salmon to ensure it’s cooked to 145℉ for perfect doneness. This prevents overcooking and ensures a tender texture.
• Broiling: Broiling at the end adds a delicious crispiness to the salmon and tomatoes, so don’t skip this step for extra flavor and texture.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh thyme and garlic for the best flavor. If fresh thyme isn’t available, you can substitute dried thyme, but reduce the amount slightly.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Salmon: If you don’t have salmon, you can substitute with other fish like trout, tilapia, or cod.
• Butter Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute the butter with olive oil or avocado oil.
• Parmesan Cheese: You can replace Parmesan with another cheese such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor.
• Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be swapped with grape tomatoes or halved larger tomatoes if preferred.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While salmon is best served fresh, you can prepare the butter mixture and chop the tomatoes in advance. Store them separately and assemble just before baking.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking for the best results. Adjust the cooking time if necessary.

How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145℉. You can also check for flakiness by gently pressing the salmon with a fork.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon just before serving.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for a perfect wine pairing.