Mediterranean Honey-Lemon Salmon with Creamy Whipped Feta & Herbed Quinoa
This dish is the perfect balance of elegance, comfort, and Mediterranean freshness. Tender salmon fillets are pan-seared and glazed in a glossy honey-lemon sauce, bringing together natural sweetness, bright citrus, and gentle garlic notes.
⏱ Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
Honey-Lemon Salmon
4 salmon fillets (150–180 g each)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp honey
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of ½ lemon
2 garlic cloves, finely grated
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
Creamy Whipped Feta
200 g feta cheese, crumbled
3 tbsp thick Greek yogurt
1½ tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp honey
Black pepper, to taste
Herbed Quinoa
1 cup cooked quinoa (warm)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tbsp dill or mint, finely chopped
Salt, to taste
Optional Garnish
Toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds
Extra fresh herbs
Lemon slices
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Whipped Feta
1. Add feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, and black pepper to a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until smooth, airy, and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Refrigerate while preparing the rest (chilling improves texture).
2️⃣ Prepare the Salmon
1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated garlic.
3. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat with a little oil.
4. Place salmon skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes until golden and crisp.
5. Flip salmon, reduce heat slightly, and spoon the honey-lemon glaze over the fillets.
6. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until just cooked through and glossy.
3️⃣ Prepare the Herbed Quinoa
1. In a bowl, combine warm quinoa with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Gently fold in parsley and dill/mint.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4️⃣ Assemble & Serve
1. Spread a generous spoon of whipped feta onto each plate.
2. Add a portion of herbed quinoa.
3. Top with honey-lemon salmon.
4. Garnish with nuts, herbs, and lemon slices if desired.
💡 Tips for a High-Rating Result
Do not overcook salmon—remove it as soon as it flakes easily.
Use room-temperature salmon for even cooking.
Chill whipped feta for at least 10 minutes for extra creaminess.
White or neutral plates make the colors pop and look expensive.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing?
Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, brushing with the glaze halfway.
Q: Can I replace quinoa?
Absolutely. Couscous, bulgur, or lemon rice work beautifully.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
No. It is completely non-spicy and very crowd-friendly.
Q: Can I make parts ahead of time?
Yes. Whipped feta and quinoa can be made up to 1 day ahead.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 470–500 kcal
Protein: ~38 g
Fat: ~28 g (rich in omega-3s)
Carbohydrates: ~22 g
Fiber: ~3 g
Sugar: ~7 g