I can’t wait to tell you about the Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta Recipe I made last weekend—it was one of those recipes that surprised me in the best way. The salmon cubes were juicy and perfectly seasoned, and that whipped feta stole the show with creamy herb flavor.
I found myself going back for seconds and even thirds. This dish felt fancy enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight.
It’s the kind of fresh recipe I enjoy serving alongside fun gathering dishes like jalapeno-popper-pizza-recipe when hosting friends, or hearty comfort-style options such as chopped-cheese-sandwich-recipe for a more casual meal spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything I used to make these salmon bites taste amazing, along with tips on why each ingredient matters.
- 1 1/2 lbs skinless salmon, cut into cubes — fresh salmon works best for texture and flavor
- 1/4 cup olive oil — helps spices stick and keeps salmon moist
- Juice from 1/2 lemon (about 2 tbsp) — adds brightness and balance
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped — brings freshness
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped — adds a light, herbal note
- 1 tbsp honey — enhances flavor and balances tang
- 1 tbsp ground sumac — provides signature citrusy tang
- 1 tsp garlic powder — adds savory depth
- 1/2 tsp salt — essential for flavor balance
- 1/2 tsp black pepper — mild heat and seasoning
Herb Whipped Feta Dip
- 4 oz feta cheese — creamy and salty base
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt — makes the dip smooth and light
- 2 tbsp olive oil — improves texture
- 1/2 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill) — bright flavor
- Juice from 1/2 lemon — adds freshness
- Pinch of salt — enhances taste
Note: Several servings — This recipe serves about 4–6 people comfortably.
Variations
If you’d like to customize this recipe, here are some easy options:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace whipped feta with a cashew-based cream or dairy-free yogurt blended with herbs.
- Lower Sugar: Omit honey or replace it with a small amount of maple syrup.
- Extra Spice: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika for heat.
- Different Herbs: Try basil, mint, or chives for a flavor twist.
- Creamier Dip: Add a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta to the feta mixture.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Baking sheet — for roasting salmon evenly
- Mixing bowl — to combine ingredients
- Food processor or blender — to create smooth whipped feta
- Sharp knife — for cutting salmon and herbs
- Cutting board — for safe prep
- Measuring spoons and cups — to keep flavors balanced
How to Make Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta Recipe?
Prepare the Salmon
First, I cut the salmon into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate. Then I tossed them in olive oil, lemon juice, honey, sumac, garlic powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and dill. I made sure every piece was fully coated for maximum flavor. Once mixed, I arranged the salmon in a single layer on a lined baking sheet.
Roast the Salmon
Next, I baked the salmon in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). It cooked for about 10–12 minutes until tender and fully cooked through. If I want slightly crispy edges, I broil it for the last 1–2 minutes. This gives beautiful texture without drying it out.
Make the Herb Whipped Feta
While the salmon cooks, I blend feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and salt in a food processor. I mix until smooth and creamy. The result is a light, fluffy dip that pairs perfectly with the warm salmon bites. I chill it briefly if I want it extra thick.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
- I always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- I make sure the salmon cubes are similar in size for even cooking.
- I don’t overcrowd the baking sheet because it prevents proper roasting.
- I let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking for better texture.
- I sometimes add a drizzle of extra olive oil before serving for richness.
How to Serve Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta?
I love serving this dish on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. I spread the whipped feta on the bottom and layer the salmon bites on top. Adding fresh herbs, lemon slices, and a drizzle of olive oil makes it visually appealing. This dish pairs well with warm pita bread, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. It also works wonderfully as an appetizer for gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: Around 350–420 kcal
- Protein: High, thanks to salmon
- Carbohydrates: Low
- Fat: Moderate, mainly from olive oil and salmon
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigeration
Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The whipped feta can be stored separately for up to 5 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain texture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. The whipped feta is not recommended for freezing because its texture may change.
Reheating
Reheat salmon in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep it moist. Serve the whipped feta cold for best flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this dish quickly became one of my favorites:
- Bright, bold flavor: Sumac and lemon give it a fresh, tangy taste.
- Quick to prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Great for entertaining: Looks elegant and impressive.
- Healthy and balanced: High in protein and healthy fats.
- Flexible recipe: Easy to adjust for dietary needs or flavor preferences.
This Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta recipe is fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It combines simple ingredients with bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress every time. Enjoy!
Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- First, I cut the salmon into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate. Then I tossed them in olive oil, lemon juice, honey, sumac, garlic powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and dill. I made sure every piece was fully coated for maximum flavor. Once mixed, I arranged the salmon in a single layer on a lined baking sheet.
- Next, I baked the salmon in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). It cooked for about 10–12 minutes until tender and fully cooked through. If I want slightly crispy edges, I broil it for the last 1–2 minutes. This gives beautiful texture without drying it out.
- While the salmon cooks, I blend feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and salt in a food processor. I mix until smooth and creamy. The result is a light, fluffy dip that pairs perfectly with the warm salmon bites. I chill it briefly if I want it extra thick
Notes
- I always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- I make sure the salmon cubes are similar in size for even cooking.
- I don’t overcrowd the baking sheet because it prevents proper roasting.
- I let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking for better texture.
- I sometimes add a drizzle of extra olive oil before serving for richness.
