Name: Savory Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta for a Healthy Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets Salmon (Use fresh, longer pieces for the best stuffing.); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Moistens the fillets and adds flavor.); 4 cups Baby spinach (Fresh is best for flavor and nutrition.); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (Adds aromatic herbs.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Gives color and mild heat.); 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (Adds a kick.); 1 cup Feta cheese (Creamy and tangy.); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated adds depth.); 1 jar Jarred roasted red peppers (Contributes sweetness and moisture.); to taste Salt (Essential for flavor.); to taste Pepper (Essential for flavor.)

The aroma of baked salmon wafting through my kitchen transports me to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores, where every bite sings with flavors of the sea. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta, a dish that effortlessly combines elegance with simplicity. This healthy, gluten-free delight is not just a feast for the senses; it can be prepped and cooked in just 30 minutes—perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and stunning dinner parties. Imagine impressing your family and friends with a vibrant salmon fillet packed with a rich filling of spinach, tangy feta, and roasted red peppers. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine?

Why is Stuffed Salmon a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: Each bite of this Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta bursts with Mediterranean flair, transforming routine dinner into a culinary celebration.

Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can savor an elegant dish without the fuss—ideal for busy weeknights.

Healthy Choice: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and nutrient-rich spinach, this gluten-free recipe supports a balanced diet while remaining indulgent.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy feta and roasted red pepper filling create a harmonious blend that will impress even the pickiest eaters.

Customizable Fun: Feel free to swap ingredients—try sun-dried tomatoes instead of roasted peppers, or add various herbs for an exciting twist. Looking for more seafood inspiration? Check out my delicious Garlic Butter Salmon or the zesty Bang Bang Salmon for more exciting options.

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need!

For the Salmon

Salmon fillets – Use fresh, longer pieces for the best stuffing.
Olive oil – Moistens the fillets and adds flavor; avocado oil can work as a substitute.

For the Filling

Baby spinach – Fresh is best for flavor and nutrition; frozen can be used if drained properly.
Italian seasoning – Adds aromatic herbs; substitute with equal parts oregano, basil, and thyme as needed.
Paprika – Gives color and mild heat; smoked paprika offers a richer flavor.
Cayenne pepper – Adds a kick; reduce or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
Feta cheese – Creamy and tangy; opt for sheep’s feta in brine or substitute with goat cheese.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated adds depth and umami to the filling.
Jarred roasted red peppers – Contributes sweetness and moisture; sun-dried tomatoes can substitute for a tangy twist.
Salt & pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Enjoy crafting this wholesome Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta that tantalizes taste buds!

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 the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta bakes evenly and doesn’t stick. This will create a convenient cleanup afterward, making your cooking experience more enjoyable.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Carefully cut each salmon fillet lengthwise to create a pocket, ensuring they remain attached at the bottom for easy stuffing. Using fresh, long fillets will yield better results. Place the prepared salmon on the lined baking sheet, showcasing its lovely pink hue as you get ready to flavor it.

Step 3: Season the Salmon
Brush each salmon piece generously with olive oil, allowing it to add moisture during the baking process. Once coated, sprinkle salt and pepper over each fillet for a delightful contrast of flavors. This step sets the stage for the flavorful stuffing that’s about to come.

Step 4: Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add baby spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and its vibrant green color deepens. The enticing aroma will indicate that your filling is coming together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine the Filling
Turn off the heat and mix in the jarred roasted red peppers, feta, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, pressing the feta to ensure it blends with the other ingredients. The rich, creamy mixture will begin to form, bursting with Mediterranean flavors, ready to be nestled inside the salmon pockets.

Step 6: Stuff the Salmon
Gently fill each salmon pocket with the spinach-feta mixture, ensuring an even distribution for delicious bites in every serving. Make sure not to overfill, as you want the salmon to hold its shape as it bakes. The vibrant filling will peek out, promising a flavor-packed experience.

Step 7: Bake the Salmon
Carefully place the stuffed salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 17 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should become opaque, turning into a lovely whitish-pink color as it cooks. Keep an eye on your dish, as overcooking can affect its tenderness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This short resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite remains succulent. Serve it warm alongside your favorite grains or vegetables for a complete, delightful meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the spinach-feta filling up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can stuff the salmon fillets up to 12 hours ahead—just be sure to keep them covered to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply place the stuffed salmon in a preheated oven and follow the cooking instructions, adding a couple of extra minutes if baking from the fridge. You’ll enjoy a nutritious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal fuss, making your dinner routine feel like a breeze!

Expert Tips for Stuffed Salmon

Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-quality salmon to enhance texture and flavor. Frozen salmon can work in a pinch, but fresh is always preferable.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your salmon in the oven. It should be opaque and just cooked through when sliced. Overcooking leads to dry fish, so check frequently as it bakes.
Stuffing Balance: Ensure an even distribution of the spinach and feta mixture in each salmon pocket; avoid overstuffing to maintain the salmon’s shape and presentation.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the stuffing, such as dill or parsley. They can add fresh flavors to your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta.
Garnish for Flair: For added elegance, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs or extra crumbled feta on top before serving, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.
Best Served Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture.

How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy the dish fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Freezer: If needed, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place frozen or refrigerated stuffed salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it warms through without drying out.

Serving Tip: Reheat gently to maintain the creaminess of the spinach and feta filling, preserving the delightful flavors of your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta.

What to Serve with Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon

Savoring your stuffed salmon dish is just the beginning. Let’s enhance that meal with delightful sides that surprise and please!

Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty quinoa salad brings a wholesome bite that balances the richness of the salmon with its fresh herbs and citrus zest.
Lemon Garlic Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus spears drizzled with lemon and garlic elevate the meal, adding a splash of bright flavor and crunch. The vibrant green perfectly complements the salmon’s colors.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the flaky salmon, offering a satisfying texture contrast.
Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta captures the Mediterranean essence, making every spoonful a burst of flavor.
Herbed Lemon Rice: Fragrant rice seasoned with fresh herbs and zesty lemon brightens the dish and is a fantastic base to soak up any delicious juices.
Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, ripe avocados, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing element, cutting through the richness of the stuffed salmon.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio offers a refreshing sip that enhances the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.
Tiramisu: End your meal with a soft, creamy tiramisu that creates a delightful contrast, introducing a sweet note that lingers on the palate.
Berry Sorbet: A refreshing scoop of berry sorbet cleanses the palate and provides a light, fruity finish to your Mediterranean feast.

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Stuffed Salmon—there are so many delightful twists to explore!

Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream in place of feta and parmesan for a rich filling without dairy.
Herb Explosion: Add fresh dill or parsley to the stuffing for a vibrant herbal flavor that complements the fish beautifully.
Extra Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts the creamy filling.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a zesty kick that’ll warm your taste buds.
Vegetable Boost: Include chopped asparagus or zucchini alongside the spinach for a colorful, nutrient-packed filling. They’ll add a lovely texture too!

Experimenting with these variations can take your dish to new heights. It’s all about finding the combination that makes your taste buds sing. Looking for more ways to enjoy salmon? Don’t miss my tasty Lemon Herb Salmon or the indulgent Chocolate Stuffed Cookies that promise to dazzle your dessert table!

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta Recipe FAQs

What kind of salmon is best for stuffing?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, longer salmon fillets for the best stuffing results. Look for wild-caught or sustainably sourced salmon for superior flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen salmon can work, but fresh is always preferable.

How long can I store leftover stuffed salmon?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you must store it, keep it sealed to maintain flavor and moisture.

Can I freeze leftover stuffed salmon?
Yes! To freeze your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if the salmon is overcooked?
Very! If you have overcooked your salmon, I recommend serving it with a creamy sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add moisture back into the dish. To avoid overcooking in the future, keep a close eye during baking; the salmon should turn opaque and have a lovely whitish-pink color when ready.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, if you have a dairy allergy, consider substituting feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or a plant-based cream cheese. Always check the labels for added allergens, especially if preparing for guests.