Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests or your family. The combination of fresh spinach, creamy feta, and tender salmon makes for a dish that looks elegant but comes together quickly. Perfect for a dinner party or a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with nutrients, salmon and spinach contribute to a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it alongside a salad or over grains for a complete meal. It’s suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Impressive presentation: The vibrant colors of the spinach and roasted red peppers make it visually appealing, perfect for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready helps streamline the cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife
• Large pan
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: This is essential for evenly baking the salmon and ensuring it doesn’t stick.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cuts when preparing the salmon for stuffing.
• Large pan: Good heat distribution is key when sautéing the spinach mixture.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4x 6-ounce pieces of salmon (approx. 170 grams each; longer pieces work best)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)

For the Filling

• 3 cups baby spinach, packed
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika (regular or smoked)
• A pinch of cayenne pepper

Cheese Mixture

• Approx. 5.3 ounce block of feta cheese (approx. 150 grams)
• 1/4 cup parmesan, freshly grated (I recommend parmigiano-reggiano)

Additional Ingredients

• 1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers, chopped into small, 1/4-inch pieces
• Salt + pepper, to taste

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon pieces onto the lined baking sheet, skin-side down.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Using a sharp knife, slice down the middle of each piece of salmon lengthwise. Be careful not to cut all the way through; leave the salmon flesh attached at the bottom and on either end.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Brush each piece of salmon with 1 Tbsp of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Sauté Spinach Mixture

Heat the remaining olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot:
1. Add baby spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté for a couple of minutes until wilted.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Peppers

Turn off the heat after sautéing:
1. Stir in chopped roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parmesan.
2. Mix well while pressing down on feta to soften it until all ingredients stick together.

Step 6: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon the spinach-feta mixture into each cut part of the salmon pieces until all mixture is used up.

Step 7: Bake

Place stuffed salmon in the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-17 minutes based on your desired doneness and thickness of fish. Remove from oven when done and serve hot!

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

Stuffed salmon with spinach and feta is a beautiful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a casual meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Elegant Plating

• Use a large white plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the stuffed salmon.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of green.

With Lemon Wedges

• Serve alongside lemon wedges to add a refreshing zing.
• Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the salmon enhances its flavor.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair with a simple mixed greens salad dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
• This adds freshness and balances the richness of the salmon.

Served with Grains

• Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or couscous.
• These grains absorb flavors and make for a hearty meal.

On a Bed of Vegetables

• Arrange roasted or steamed vegetables under the salmon.
• This adds color and nutrition while complementing the dish.

Paired with Wine

• Serve with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc.
• The acidity in the wine pairs well with the richness of the salmon.

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

To elevate your stuffed salmon, consider these essential tips. Simple tweaks can make your dish even more delightful!

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh fish will have better flavor and texture. Look for bright, moist fillets without any discoloration.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked salmon can become dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Customize Fillings: Feel free to add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives for added flavor. Personalize based on your taste preferences.
• Use Quality Feta Cheese: Opt for good quality feta; it makes a noticeable difference in taste. Crumbled feta adds creaminess that binds the filling well.
• Chill Before Baking: Allow filled salmon to chill for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps maintain its shape during cooking.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

Pairing side dishes with your stuffed salmon can create a balanced meal filled with flavor. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes enhanced with roasted garlic make an ideal pairing for rich salmon.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides crunch and freshness, complementing the stuffed salmon beautifully.
3. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with lemon zest complements the Mediterranean theme while adding texture to your plate.
4. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing blend of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives offers vibrant flavors that match well with salmon.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring an earthy component that contrasts nicely against the rich filling in the fish.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A light, low-carb option that’s easy to prepare and soaks up any sauce from the stuffed salmon perfectly.
7. Greek Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce made with cucumbers adds tanginess and creaminess, perfect for dipping bites of salmon into!
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs makes for an aromatic side that pairs seamlessly with stuffed salmon.

These side dishes will not only enhance your meal but also create an impressive dining experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Overcooking the salmon – Salmon can dry out if overcooked. Use a timer and check for doneness at 12 minutes.
• Not seasoning enough – Feta and spinach need good seasoning. Don’t hold back on salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Using the wrong type of salmon – Choose longer pieces of salmon for easier stuffing. Thicker cuts may not cook evenly.
• Skipping the sautéing step – Sautéing spinach brings out its flavor. Always wilt the spinach before mixing it into the stuffing.
• Not allowing it to rest – Letting stuffed salmon rest for a few minutes after baking helps redistribute juices for a moist bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The stuffed salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, checking regularly.
• Stovetop – Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, covering to retain moisture. Cook until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta.

Can I use frozen spinach for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the stuffing mix.

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

Light salads, roasted vegetables, or quinoa make excellent sides, complementing the Mediterranean flavors.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon should flake easily with a fork when cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I customize the stuffing for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or different cheeses to tailor it to your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and maintains its flavors over time.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies, making it a delightful addition to your recipe collection. Try this easy-to-make dish today!