Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

If you’re looking for a dish that feels elegant but is surprisingly simple to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) has become one of my go-to recipes. It’s perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home during busy weeknights. The delightful combination of fresh spinach, creamy feta, and roasted red peppers makes this dish not only flavorful but also visually stunning.

I love how quickly this recipe comes together. In just about half an hour, you can serve up a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired meal that tastes like it took all day to make. Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy nights when you still want something special.
• Deliciously Healthy: Packed with nutrients, this dish is not only tasty but also good for you. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while spinach adds a boost of vitamins.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it appealing even to picky eaters. Everyone will love the savory filling!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and simply assemble and bake the salmon when you’re ready to eat.
• Gourmet Presentation: The stuffed salmon looks impressive on any plate, making it an ideal choice for entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on this Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is easy with these wholesome ingredients. They are simple yet bursting with flavor!

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 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, 1/4-inch pieces

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of salmon for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like artichokes or zucchini into the filling for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or ricotta could work beautifully as alternatives.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little kick in your dish!

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. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place your salmon pieces skin-side down on the lined baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the middle of each piece lengthwise without cutting all the way through—this creates a pocket for our delicious filling.

Step 3: Season and Set Aside

Brush each piece of salmon with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavor while ensuring that the fish stays moist during baking.

Step 4: Sauté the Spinach

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

Step 5: Combine Filling Ingredients

Once wilted, turn off the heat and add in those lovely chopped roasted red peppers along with crumbled feta and grated parmesan. Stir everything together until combined well; pressing down on the feta helps create that creamy texture we’re after.

Step 6: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon generous amounts of that delicious spinach-feta mixture into each cut part of the salmon pieces until they’re evenly filled and looking scrumptious.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Now it’s time for these beauties to hit the oven! Bake your stuffed salmon for about 12-17 minutes depending on how thick your fish is and how done you prefer it. When finished, remove from oven and serve hot—enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking can feel daunting, but with these helpful tips, you’ll find that making this delicious stuffed salmon is a breeze!

• Choose the right salmon: Selecting longer pieces of salmon not only looks more impressive but also makes it easier to stuff without breaking. Look for fillets that are uniform in thickness for even cooking.

• Sauté spinach just enough: Sautéing the spinach until just wilted helps maintain its vibrant green color and nutritional value. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture that won’t hold up well in your stuffing.

• Use fresh herbs: While dried Italian seasoning works beautifully, incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or dill will add an extra layer of flavor and aroma that elevates the dish.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the stuffed salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the fish, leading to a moist and flavorful bite every time.

• Experiment with cheeses: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique taste and creaminess to the dish!

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

Presenting your stuffed salmon beautifully will impress your guests and make your meal feel like a special occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill over the top right before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of the salmon while adding a nutritious boost.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the Mediterranean theme beautifully and add vibrant colors to your plate.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the stuffed salmon’s bold flavors, making it a hearty meal option.
• Mediterranean couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a delightful side that enhances the overall Mediterranean experience of your dinner.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re all set to enjoy a wonderful meal that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is visually appealing! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Reheat gently to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the stuffed salmon, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta!

Can I prepare Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed salmon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it an excellent option for quick weeknight dinners!

What sides pair well with Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa. The Mediterranean flavors complement fresh, vibrant sides perfectly!

How do I know when my Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is done?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s fully cooked. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to make this wonderful Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta! It’s not only quick and easy but also brings a delightful burst of Mediterranean flavors that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite as you bring this dish to life in your kitchen. Happy cooking!