I still remember the first time I made Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta Recipe — my kitchen smelled fresh, citrusy, and absolutely irresistible. I wanted something light but flavorful, and this recipe completely delivered.

The tangy sumac paired with tender salmon and creamy whipped feta was beyond what I expected. When I served it, everyone kept asking how I made it. Now it’s one of my favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes to prepare when I want something quick yet impressive.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this recipe perfect every time. Each ingredient plays an important role in building bold flavor.

• 1 1/2 lbs skinless salmon – Cut into bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly and stay juicy. Fresh salmon works best for texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup olive oil – Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for richer taste and smoothness.
• Juice from 1/2 a lemon (about 2 tbsp) – Fresh lemon juice brightens the salmon and balances its richness.
• 1 tbsp honey – Adds subtle sweetness and helps the salmon caramelize beautifully.
• 1 tbsp sumac – The star spice! It brings a tangy, citrus-like flavor that makes the dish unique.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Provides savory depth without the risk of burning fresh garlic in the oven.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors. Adjust slightly depending on your feta’s saltiness.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked pepper gives the best aroma and mild heat.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and vibrant color.
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped – Dill pairs beautifully with salmon and adds Mediterranean flair.

Herb Whipped Feta

• 4 oz feta cheese – Crumbly, salty, and creamy when blended. Use block feta for better texture instead of pre-crumbled.
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt – Makes the feta smooth and creamy. Full-fat yogurt gives the best consistency.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness and helps achieve that silky whipped texture.
• 1/2 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill) – Fresh herbs give the dip its bright, garden-fresh flavor.
• Juice from 1/2 a lemon (about 2 tbsp) – Adds brightness and balances the saltiness of feta.
• Pinch of salt – Just a small amount to enhance flavors if needed.

Note: This recipe makes approximately 4–6 servings, depending on portion size.

Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to match your preferences or dietary needs.

• Dairy-Free Option – Replace feta with a dairy-free feta alternative and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
• Low-Carb/Keto – Serve the salmon bites over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted vegetables.
• Extra Tangy – Add lemon zest to both the salmon marinade and whipped feta for stronger citrus flavor.
• Spicy Version – Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a mild kick.
• Herb Swap – Use basil or mint instead of dill for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Time

This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Baking sheet – For roasting the salmon evenly.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Mixing bowl – For coating the salmon with seasoning.
• Food processor or blender – To create smooth and creamy whipped feta.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping salmon and herbs.

How to Make Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta Recipe?

This recipe is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish ready in no time.

Prepare the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 425°F so it’s properly heated before baking. Cut the salmon into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate. In a bowl, gently toss the salmon with olive oil, lemon juice, honey, sumac, garlic powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and dill until fully coated.

Bake the Salmon

Spread the salmon cubes out on a lined baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them, or they may steam instead of roast. Bake for about 10–12 minutes, until cooked through and slightly golden on the edges. For extra browning, broil for the final 1–2 minutes.

Make the Herb Whipped Feta

While the salmon bakes, add feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt into a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust lemon or salt if needed.

Assemble and Serve

Spread a generous layer of herb whipped feta onto a serving plate. Place the warm salmon bites on top. Garnish with extra herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, here are a few tips I’ve learned:

• I always use fresh lemon juice because it makes a huge difference in brightness.
• I avoid overcrowding the pan so the salmon gets slightly crispy edges.
• I let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving to lock in juices.
• I sometimes add a light drizzle of honey on top before serving for extra shine.
• I taste the whipped feta before plating and adjust seasoning as needed.

How to Serve Sumac Salmon Bites with Herb Whipped Feta Recipe?

This dish is incredibly versatile and works for many occasions.

Serve it over warm pita bread or flatbread for a Mediterranean-style wrap. Pair it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Add a fresh cucumber and tomato salad on the side for extra freshness. You can also serve the salmon bites as an appetizer with toothpicks for gatherings. Garnish with extra chopped herbs and lemon wedges for a bright, elegant look.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350–450
• Protein: 30–35g
• Carbohydrates: 5–10g
• Fat: 22–28g

This recipe is high in protein and healthy fats, making it satisfying and balanced.

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerating

Store leftover salmon and whipped feta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. You can enjoy leftovers cold in salads or gently reheated.

Freezing

Cooked salmon can be frozen, but the texture may slightly change. The whipped feta does not freeze well. If freezing, store only the cooked salmon for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat salmon in a low oven at 300°F until warmed through to prevent drying out. You can also re-blend the feta if it thickens in the fridge to restore its creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold Mediterranean Flavor – The combination of sumac, lemon, herbs, and feta is bright and delicious.
• Impressive Presentation – It looks elegant but requires minimal effort.
• Healthy and Balanced – High in protein with wholesome ingredients.
• Versatile – Works as an appetizer, lunch bowl, or dinner centerpiece.