Baked Garlic Salmon with Freekeh

This baked garlic salmon with freekeh is a wholesome and flavour-packed dish that combines tender, spiced salmon with hearty grains and aromatic spices. Finished with fresh lettuce and a creamy yoghurt topping, it’s a balanced meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or healthy meal prep, this dish delivers bold flavours with minimal effort.

What Makes This Dish Special?

This recipe blends Middle Eastern-inspired spices with nutrient-rich freekeh and protein-packed salmon. The baking method allows the flavours to develop together, creating a one-pan meal that’s both convenient and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in protein and fibre
• One-pan, easy preparation
• Rich, aromatic spice blend
• Balanced and nutritious meal
• Perfect for meal prep

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (150g each)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 garlic cloves (half of total), crushed
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Freekeh Base

• 1 brown onion, sliced
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• Remaining garlic
• 2 cups freekeh
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 400g crushed tomatoes
• 1 litre water

To Serve

• Baby cos lettuce, shredded
• 1/3 cup Greek yoghurt
• Lemon wedges
• Extra olive oil

How to Make Baked Garlic Salmon with Freekeh

Step 1: Marinate the Salmon

Combine cumin, half the garlic, and olive oil. Coat the salmon and refrigerate for up to 1 hour if time allows.

Step 2: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced).

Step 3: Cook the Freekeh Base

Heat oil in a deep roasting pan. Cook onion for 5 minutes until softened.

Add spices and remaining garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in freekeh, then tomato paste.

Add crushed tomatoes and water. Cover and bring to a simmer, then transfer to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes until nearly tender.

Step 4: Add the Salmon

Nestle salmon into the freekeh mixture.

Bake for another 10–15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and freekeh is tender.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Stir lettuce into the freekeh around the salmon.

Top salmon with yoghurt, drizzle with olive oil, and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips for Best Results

• Marinate salmon for deeper flavour
• Don’t overcook salmon—keep it moist
• Stir freekeh occasionally if needed
• Use fresh spices for stronger aroma
• Add more water if freekeh dries out

Health Benefits

This dish is:

• High in protein from salmon
• Rich in fibre from freekeh
• Packed with vitamins and minerals
• Balanced for a complete meal

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with extra yoghurt for creaminess
• Pair with a fresh side salad
• Add herbs like parsley or coriander for freshness

Final Thoughts

Baked garlic salmon with freekeh is a perfect example of a healthy, flavour-forward meal. With its rich spices, tender fish, and hearty grains, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Whether you’re cooking for family or preparing meals ahead, this recipe is a great addition to your rotation.