While I love fish all year round, one cannot help but associate fish with the summer months. I have combined here the all-time favorite salmon fish with cherry tomatoes and fennel wedges. The fatty salmon coming together with charred tomatoes and aromatic fennel is an incredible combination infused with za’atar spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Salmon fillet, divided into three pieces
• 1 lb Cherry tomatoes
• 1 fresh bulb fennel, cut into thin strips for caramelization
• 1 tbsp black sesame seeds to sprinkle on salmon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Dressing:

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 6 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp za’atar
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients and mix well.
3. In a baking tray, place the tomatoes and fennel.
4. Pour over the dressing, saving some for the salmon, and ensure the vegetables are well mixed with the dressing.
5. Pat dry the salmon and add it to the mix, then pour over the remaining dressing. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
6. Pour fresh lemon juice over the salmon and serve warm.