Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

If you’re looking for a dish that feels gourmet but comes together in just 30 minutes, you’re in for a treat! This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It’s not only packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, but it also makes an impressive statement at dinner parties or cozy weeknight meals with family. The combination of tender salmon, sautéed spinach, creamy feta, and sweet roasted red peppers is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens!

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You’ll be surprised at how quickly everything comes together. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just whipping up something special for yourself, this dish is sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and nutrients from the spinach, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the flavors of this stuffed salmon. It’s a great way to introduce new ingredients without overwhelming anyone.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffing in advance and fill the salmon right before cooking for an even quicker meal.
• Versatile Flavors: The Mediterranean-inspired filling adds a burst of flavor that can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You probably have some of these essentials in your kitchen already!

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

Variations

One of the things I love about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try using goat cheese or even ricotta for a different flavor profile.
• Add some herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can bring an extra layer of freshness to the stuffing.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes to the filling for more variety.
• Try different fish: If you’re not a fan of salmon, this stuffing works well with chicken breast or another firm fish like halibut.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and helps achieve that perfect flaky texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your salmon pieces skin-side down. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the middle lengthwise—this will create a pocket for your delicious filling!

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Brush each piece with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This step enhances the natural flavors of the salmon while keeping it moist during baking.

Step 4: Sauté the Spinach Mixture

In a large pan, heat up the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in your baby spinach along with Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté until wilted—this usually takes just a couple of minutes! Cooking the spinach helps release its flavors and reduces moisture so that your filling isn’t soggy.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Peppers

Remove from heat and stir in chopped roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parmesan. Press down on the feta as you mix; this helps everything stick together beautifully.

Step 6: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon that delightful spinach-feta mixture into each cut piece of salmon until they are generously filled. Don’t be shy—make sure they’re packed full!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your stuffed salmon in the oven and bake for about 12 to 17 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The cooking time will vary based on how thick your fish is and how done you like it. Once it’s flaked easily with a fork but still moist inside, it’s ready to serve!

Enjoy every flavorful bite of this Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta—it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes!

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

Making stuffed salmon can feel a bit daunting, but with these tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Choose the Right Salmon: Opt for thicker fillets when possible; they hold up better during cooking and allow for more stuffing, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to cram as much filling as possible into your salmon, overstuffing can lead to spillage during baking. Aim for a balanced amount that fills the cut without overflowing.
• Watch Your Cooking Time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes; check for flakiness at around 12 minutes and adjust accordingly. Perfectly cooked salmon should be tender but not dry.
• Experiment with Fillings: While spinach and feta are delicious, feel free to mix in other ingredients like artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Just be mindful of moisture levels to prevent sogginess.
• Let It Rest: After removing the salmon from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and flavorful.

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

Serving stuffed salmon is about showcasing its beautiful presentation and complementing its flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill adds a burst of freshness and color that contrasts beautifully with the baked salmon.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions, enhancing the dish’s brightness.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: This light and fluffy salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the salmon perfectly while adding a nutritious boost.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized makes for a colorful and hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the stuffed salmon.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the flaky salmon while soaking up any extra juices from the dish.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil is not only visually appealing but also offers a crunchy texture that balances out the dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this stunning yet simple stuffed salmon recipe! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This stuffed salmon recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and healthy dinner throughout the week. With a few simple steps, you can make this dish ahead of time or store leftovers for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed salmon to cool completely before storing.
• Place the salmon in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each piece of stuffed salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• 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.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta in Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly.

How long does it take to cook Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)?

This delightful dish takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

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

Consider pairing your stuffed salmon with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe as special as I do! Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is not only easy and quick but also brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. I encourage you to try making it yourself—it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!