Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

If you’re looking for a dish that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, then this recipe for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) is just what you need. Imagine serving up perfectly baked salmon, bursting with a delicious Mediterranean filling of spinach, tangy feta, and vibrant roasted red peppers. It’s not only mouthwatering but also healthy, making it a fantastic option for both busy weeknights and festive family gatherings.

This stuffed salmon is one of my go-to recipes because it’s so simple to prepare yet looks impressive on the plate. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to a delightful dinner, this dish brings warmth and flavor that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip this up even on the busiest nights.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with nutrients from spinach and salmon, it’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are mild enough for kids to enjoy while still being sophisticated enough for adults.
• Make-ahead potential: Prepping the stuffing in advance makes it easy to assemble right before baking.
• Impressive presentation: This dish looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for impressing guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that the ingredients for this stuffed salmon are simple and wholesome. Most of them are probably already in your pantry or fridge! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salmon

• 4x 6-ounce pieces of salmon (approx. 170 grams each; I find longer pieces of salmon work best)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• Salt + pepper, to taste

For the Filling

• 3 cups baby spinach, packed
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika (regular or smoked)
• A pinch of cayenne pepper
• Approx. 5.3 ounces feta cheese (approx. 150 grams)
• 1/4 cup parmesan, freshly grated (I recommend parmigiano-reggiano)
• 1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers, chopped into small, 1/4-inch pieces

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of salmon for a different flavor profile.
• Add different veggies: Incorporate other greens like kale or arugula, or add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.
• Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, crumbled goat cheese works beautifully too!
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, add finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.

How to Make Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place your salmon pieces onto the lined sheet with the skin-side down. This step sets you up for easy cleanup later!

Step 2: Cut the Salmon

Using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the middle of each piece of salmon lengthwise. Make sure not to cut all the way through; leave it attached at both ends and on the bottom. This creates a lovely pocket for your filling—don’t worry if it’s not perfect; it will still taste amazing!

Step 3: Seasoning Time

Brush each piece of salmon with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor and keeps your fish moist while baking.

Step 4: Sautéing Greens

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in your baby spinach along with Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté this mixture until the spinach wilts down—about two minutes should do! This step locks in those vibrant flavors.

Step 5: Create Your Filling

Turn off the heat and add in your chopped roasted red peppers, crumbled feta cheese, and freshly grated parmesan. Stir everything together well! Press down on the feta as you mix—it should mush nicely into the other ingredients—creating a cohesive filling.

Step 6: Stuff It Up!

Now comes the fun part! Spoon the creamy spinach-feta mixture into each pocket you’ve created in the salmon fillets until they are all evenly filled. Don’t be shy—this filling is delicious!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your stuffed salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-17 minutes. The cooking time may vary based on how thick your fish is and how well-done you prefer it. Once done, remove from oven and serve hot—your masterpiece is ready!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!). It’s sure to become a new favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

Cooking doesn’t have to be intimidating, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your stuffed salmon to a whole new level of deliciousness!

• Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible. It not only supports sustainable fishing practices but also tends to have a richer flavor and firmer texture.

• Don’t Overstuff: While it may be tempting to pack in more filling, overstuffing can make the salmon difficult to cook evenly. A generous amount of filling will still make for a satisfying dish without compromising the cooking process.

• Check Doneness Carefully: Salmon is best enjoyed when it’s just cooked through. Use a fork to gently flake the thickest part; if it flakes easily and is opaque, it’s ready. This ensures a moist and tender result.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the stuffing! Adding different herbs or swapping feta for goat cheese can give this dish your unique twist while keeping it flavorful and fresh.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the stuffed salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking helps redistribute the juices, making each bite flavorful and juicy.

How to Serve Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

Presenting your stuffed salmon beautifully can make all the difference at the dinner table. Here are some creative ideas to highlight this dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill adds a burst of freshness that complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly.
• Lemon Wedges: Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the salmon brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty touch that balances the richness of the feta.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the top gives an elegant finish and enhances both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with stuffed salmon, adding texture and nutrition.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt makes for a vibrant side that’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: For a creamy yet low-carb option, garlic mashed cauliflower is a fantastic complement that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs brings an additional layer of Mediterranean flair that pairs perfectly with your salmon.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress your guests or simply treat yourself to an exquisite meal! Enjoy every delicious bite of your stuffed salmon with spinach & feta!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta is not only quick to prepare, but it also lends itself beautifully to meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time for busy weeknights or even serve it at a dinner party. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any uneaten salmon in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent moisture loss, cover the salmon tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.

Freezing

• Wrap each piece of stuffed salmon individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• The salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, label and date the packaging.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following the above instructions.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with this recipe!

Can I prepare Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) without feta cheese?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute feta with a plant-based cheese or omit it entirely. Just make sure to add extra seasoning for flavor.

How do I know when my Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) is done cooking?

The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on it during baking, as cooking times may vary based on thickness.

Can I use frozen spinach for the stuffing?

Yes! Frozen spinach is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before using it in your stuffing mixture.

What can I serve with Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad for a complete meal. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How do I store leftovers of Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as directed above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta! It’s such a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether it’s for an everyday meal or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress your family or guests. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear!