Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun begins to dip below the horizon, bathing my kitchen in golden light, I can’t help but smile at the aromatic symphony rising from my oven. Cooking is more than a chore; it’s a joyous journey, especially when crafting something as delightful as Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta. This dish makes a perfect centerpiece for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party. Not only is it healthy and gluten-free, but it’s also incredibly quick to prepare, taking a mere 30 minutes from prep to plate. With melty feta nestled against tender salmon, every bite is a warm embrace of Mediterranean flavors. Ready to impress yourself and your guests? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together! Why is Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon a Must-Try? Flavorful Harmony: The marriage of creamy feta and fresh spinach brings a delightful burst of Mediterranean flavor that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this stunning dish, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss. Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside whole grains like quinoa or a crisp salad for a complete meal. You can also try it with a side of Garlic Butter Salmon for a delicious surf-and-turf experience! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its elegant presentation and rich taste make it ideal for dinner parties, impressing your guests without the stress. Health Benefits: Packed with lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this dish is not just satisfying — it’s also a smart choice for your health. Dive into this recipe and let the flavors take you on a journey! Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Ingredients For the Salmon • Salmon – This lean protein is the dish’s base; opt for fresh salmon for the best texture. • Olive Oil – Adds richness during cooking; avocado oil can be a good substitute. For the Filling • Baby Spinach – Provides a nutritious base with vibrant color; can be swapped with kale if desired. • Italian Seasoning – Infuses the filling with herby flavor; a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works well too. • Paprika – Enhances the color and flavor; use regular or smoked varieties depending on preference. • Cayenne Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; be careful not to overdo it! For the Cheese • Feta Cheese – Brings creaminess and tang; choose brine-stored feta for the best flavor; goat cheese is a nice alternative. • Parmesan Cheese – Optional, adds depth to the filling; nutritional yeast serves as a dairy-free substitute if needed. For Extras • Roasted Red Peppers – Provide sweetness and character; sun-dried tomatoes can be a delightful alternative. Dive into the vibrant world of stuffed salmon with spinach & feta and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, prepare a lined baking sheet with parchment paper to easily clean up any drips later. This quick step ensures your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta bakes evenly and achieves a lovely golden finish. Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Cut each salmon fillet lengthwise, taking care not to slice all the way through—leave a hinge at the ends for a neat pocket. Once that’s done, brush the salmon generously with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and pepper for added flavor. This preparation sets the stage for the delicious filling to come. Step 3: Sauté the Spinach Mixture In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and toss in the baby spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, and salt. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully. This step creates the aromatic foundation that enhances your stuffed salmon. Step 4: Incorporate Cheeses and Peppers Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the roasted red peppers, feta, and optional parmesan until well combined. The warm mixture will allow the cheeses to soften, resulting in a creamy filling that will perfectly complement the salmon. This flavorful mixture is the heart of your dish! Step 5: Stuff the Salmon Gently take the sautéed filling and stuff each salmon fillet generously, ensuring an even distribution. Press the edges together lightly to secure the stuffing. With your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta ready, you’ll soon witness the transformation as it bakes to perfection. Step 6: Bake the Salmon Place your stuffed salmon on the prepared baking sheet and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 12-17 minutes, keeping an eye out for the fillets to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. This ensures the fish remains tender and the stuffing inside is fully heated through. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, and relish the visual appeal of your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta. Pair with a side of quinoa or a crisp salad for a delightful, healthful meal! Expert Tips for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta • Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon ensures a flaky texture and better flavor. Opt for wild-caught if available; it’s worth the extra effort! • Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in the filling, overstuffing can cause the salmon to break open during baking. Aim for a balanced amount for neat presentation. • Monitor Baking Time: As salmon thickness varies, check for doneness around the 12-minute mark. Overcooking can lead to dry fish; aim for a perfect flaky texture. • Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling! Swap out ingredients based on your preference. Sun-dried tomatoes can give your stuffed salmon a delightful twist. • Let it Rest: Allow your stuffed salmon to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and prevents the filling from spilling out when cut. What to Serve with Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides that enhance the Mediterranean flavors. Quinoa Salad: This light, fluffy grain brings a nutty flavor and satisfying texture, making it a wholesome match for stuffed salmon. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing crunch. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, garlicky potatoes offer a rich counterpoint to the savory salmon, creating a comforting balance that no one can resist. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added flair. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears, lightly seasoned and roasted, add a delightful crispness. Their earthy flavor beautifully enhances the dish’s overall freshness. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, this colorful salad bursts with flavors from olives, feta, and lemon dressing, pairing perfectly with the savory stuffing of the salmon. Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice with bright lemon zest elevates your meal with zesty notes that harmonize with the salmon. This simple side is incredibly aromatic and easy to prepare. Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of white wine adds a sophisticated touch, its crispness cutting through the richness of the stuffed salmon. Enjoying a glass elevates your dining experience even further. Berry Tart: For a sweet finish, serve a light berry tart with a drizzle of honey. The tartness of the fruit contrasts beautifully with the savory salmon, leaving your taste buds singing with joy. Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Variations Feel free to make this dish your own with delightful twists that enhance its flavors and textures! Dairy-Free: Substitute feta and parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free option. Leafy Greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of baby spinach for a heartier filling with different textures. Each variety brings its own unique flavor to the dish. Extra Veggies: Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, or mushrooms to the filling for added depth and umami flavors. Spice It Up: Include minced jalapeños or crushed red pepper for a kick of heat in the stuffing. Adjust according to your heat preference for an enjoyable zing! Herb Variations: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh dill or parsley to brighten up the stuffing with fresh, vibrant notes. Citrus Twist: Mix in lemon zest or a splash of fresh lemon juice into the filling for a burst of freshness that complements the salmon beautifully. Flavor Boosts: Incorporate a dollop of cream cheese into the stuffing for a richer, creamier texture that adds a luxurious touch to every bite. Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the filling for an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor that adds complexity to the dish. Explore these variations to make your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta a truly unique experience that delights every time you serve it. For even more delicious salmon recipes, check out Garlic Butter Salmon and Honey Sriracha Salmon Bowls! How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep your stuffed salmon fresh. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any moisture loss. Freezer: If you have extra stuffed salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to enjoy it later, freezing for up to 2 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps maintain the moisture and texture of the dish. Make Ahead Options These Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the stuffing (spinach, feta, roasted red peppers, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can stuff the salmon fillets and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. To maintain quality, ensure the salmon is tightly sealed to prevent drying out, and avoid overstuffing to keep the filling intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the stuffed salmon from the fridge for a few extra minutes to ensure it’s thoroughly heated. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal last-minute effort! Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Recipe FAQs What type of salmon is best for this recipe? Absolutely! Fresh salmon is ideal for this dish as it provides a flaky texture and enhances flavor. Wild-caught salmon is my personal recommendation if it’s available to you; the quality is often superior and worth the extra effort. How should I store leftovers of stuffed salmon? After enjoying your delicious stuffed salmon with spinach & feta, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure the container is sealed tightly to minimize moisture loss! Can I freeze stuffed salmon? Very! If you want to save some for later, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will freeze well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it again, remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. What should I do if my salmon is overcooked? If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having overcooked salmon, don’t fret! You can salvage it by serving with a drizzle of olive oil or a light lemon-butter sauce to add moisture back. Additionally, pair it with a creamy sauce or serve over a bed of sautéed vegetables to enhance its flavor! Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Certainly! This stuffed salmon with spinach & feta can be modified for various dietary needs. If you’re avoiding gluten, you’re in luck; it’s naturally gluten-free! For dairy-free options, substitute feta and parmesan with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. Always double-check your fillings and sauces to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements. How can I tell if the salmon is fully cooked? To check for perfect doneness, look for the salmon to turn opaque and easily flake apart with a fork. A cooking time of 12-17 minutes at 400°F usually does the trick, but always remember that salmon thickness can vary, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Enjoy the cooking adventure! Savory Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta for Dinner Delight Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is a healthy, gluten-free dish that is quick to prepare and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 filletsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon4 fillets Salmon Opt for fresh salmon for the best texture.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.For the Filling4 cups Baby Spinach Can swap with kale if desired.1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works well.1 teaspoon Paprika Use regular or smoked varieties.0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust to taste, be careful not to overdo it!For the Cheese4 ounces Feta Cheese Choose brine-stored feta for the best flavor.2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese Optional, nutritional yeast serves as a dairy-free substitute.For Extras1 cup Roasted Red Peppers Sun-dried tomatoes can be a delightful alternative. Equipment OvenSkilletBaking SheetParchment Paper Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a lined baking sheet with parchment paper.Cut each salmon fillet lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.Sauté baby spinach with olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, and salt in a skillet for 2-3 minutes until wilted.Mix in roasted red peppers, feta, and optional parmesan until well combined.Stuff each salmon fillet with the filling, pressing edges together lightly.Bake on the prepared baking sheet for 12-17 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.Allow the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1filletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesServe with quinoa or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Fresh salmon ensures a flaky texture and better flavor. Don't overstuff the salmon to prevent breaking during baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
