Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy yet is wonderfully simple, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) recipe will impress your guests without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. I adore this dish because it combines the rich flavors of salmon with a creamy, savory filling that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this meal hits all the right notes.

Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients and can be ready in just half an hour! You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Healthy and Delicious: With fresh spinach and feta cheese, you’re getting great nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: The stuffed salmon looks stunning on any dinner plate, sure to wow your family and friends.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty dish, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! There’s nothing complicated here—just fresh flavors that come together beautifully.

For the Salmon

• 4x 6-ounce pieces of salmon (approx. 170 grams each; longer pieces 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 ounce block of 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 pieces

Variations

This stuffed salmon recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using chicken breasts or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the greens: Feel free to replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
• Add some zest: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the filling nicely!
• Experiment with cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking for something different.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the salmon bakes evenly and quickly, helping you get dinner on the table in no time!

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your salmon pieces skin-side down. Using a sharp knife, slice down the middle lengthwise but don’t cut all the way through. This creates a lovely pocket for our delicious filling!

Step 3: Season Your Salmon

Brush each piece of salmon with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper generously over them. This step not only adds flavor but also helps keep the fish moist while baking.

Step 4: Sauté Your Vegetables

In a large pan over medium heat, add your remaining olive oil and toss in the spinach along with Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the spinach is wilted—this should take just a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Mix in Cheese and Peppers

Once your spinach has wilted, turn off the heat and mix in chopped roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parmesan. Stir well until everything combines beautifully; pressing down on the feta helps create that creamy texture we love.

Step 6: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon generous amounts of your spinach-feta mixture into each salmon pocket until they’re filled to perfection! Don’t be shy—this stuffing is what makes each bite so special.

Step 7: Bake Your Salmon

Finally, place your stuffed salmon in the oven. Bake for about 12-17 minutes depending on how thick your fish pieces are and how done you prefer them. Once they’re cooked through but still juicy, remove them from the oven and serve hot!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta recipe! It’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

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

Making this stuffed salmon is a breeze, but a few extra tips can elevate your dish even further!

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets not only taste better but also have a firmer texture that holds up beautifully when stuffed and baked.

• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in the filling, overstuffing can cause the salmon to break apart. Aim for a generous amount that still allows the salmon to seal.

• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, like parsley or dill, add them to the spinach mixture for an extra burst of flavor. Fresh herbs enhance the Mediterranean profile of this dish!

• Check Doneness with a Fork: Instead of relying solely on time, check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork. This ensures you achieve the perfect texture without overcooking.

• Let It Rest: After baking, let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices and makes each bite more flavorful.

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

Presenting your stuffed salmon beautifully can turn a simple dinner into an impressive meal! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon adds brightness and balances the richness of the feta.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or dill on top right before serving for added color and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: This nutty salad complements the salmon perfectly while adding a healthy grain option. Toss cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for freshness.

• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and seasoned simply with salt and pepper, roasted asparagus adds a lovely crunch and vibrant green color to your plate.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic bring comfort to your meal while balancing out the flavors of the stuffed salmon.

• Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, bell peppers, and a drizzle of olive oil makes for an excellent side that echoes the Mediterranean theme of your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to impress family or guests alike! Enjoy your delightful culinary creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is not only quick to make but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, ensuring you have a delicious and healthy dinner ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Make sure to cool the salmon to room temperature before sealing it.

Freezing

• Wrap individual pieces of stuffed salmon tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped salmon in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place salmon on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

How do I make Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta in advance?

You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and stuff the salmon just before cooking. This keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant!

Can I use different cheese for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

Absolutely! While feta adds a lovely tang, you can try using goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives that will still complement the spinach beautifully.

What side dishes pair well with Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

Consider serving it with a light salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta becomes a favorite in your kitchen! It’s an ideal dish that brings together simplicity and flavor without sacrificing health. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!