Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before you start preparing the salmon, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the oven is hot enough to cook the salmon quickly and evenly. Also, spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the salmon from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Avocado-Feta Topping

While the oven is heating up, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, and sliced chives. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the mixture and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together gently so that the avocado doesn’t get too mashed. Once it’s well combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate the topping while you prepare the salmon. This will help the flavors meld and keep the topping fresh.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon

Next, place the salmon fillets on a paper towel and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This step ensures the salmon will bake evenly and helps the seasoning stick better. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh dill. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets, making sure to coat them evenly. Season each fillet with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. The paprika will add a subtle smokiness and color to the salmon. Adjust the seasonings to your preference—if you like a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Place the prepared salmon fillets in the oven and bake them for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked. To check if the salmon is done, gently press down on the top of the fillet with a fork. If it flakes easily and appears opaque in the center, it’s ready. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry. The key is to cook it just enough so that it’s tender and juicy.

Step 5: Serve

Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Spoon the avocado-feta topping over each fillet, then serve immediately. The creamy, tangy topping will complement the salmon perfectly, creating a fresh and vibrant dish that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing.