Name: Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4x 6-ounce pieces of salmon (approximately 170 grams each); 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided); 3 cups baby spinach, packed; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; A pinch of cayenne pepper; Approximately 5.3 ounces block of feta cheese (around 150 grams); 1/4 cup parmesan, freshly grated; 1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers (chopped into small pieces); Salt + pepper, to taste

why make this recipe

Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta is a delicious and healthy dish that can be made in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender salmon, savory spinach, and creamy feta cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health, while spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a dinner party. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize the stuffing to your taste.

how to make Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta

Making Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta is easy and straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Ingredients:

4x 6-ounce pieces of salmon (approximately 170 grams each; longer pieces 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
Approximately 5.3 ounce block of feta cheese (around 150 grams)
1/4 cup parmesan, freshly grated (using parmigiano-reggiano is recommended)
1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers (chopped into small, 1/4-inch pieces)
Salt + pepper, to taste

Directions:

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and becomes perfectly flaky.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Prep the Salmon: Place the salmon pieces onto the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the middle of each salmon piece lengthwise. It’s important not to cut all the way through, as you want the salmon to remain attached at the bottom and on either end.
Season the Salmon: Brush the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Set them aside to allow the flavors to infuse.
Sauté the Spinach: In a large pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the packed baby spinach, along with Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and additional salt and pepper. Sauté the mixture for a couple of minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
Prepare the Filling: Turn off the heat and add the chopped roasted red peppers to the sautéed spinach. Crumble in the feta cheese and add the freshly grated parmesan. Stir everything together well, pressing down on the feta to soften it. This will help the ingredients stick together.
Stuff the Salmon: Carefully spoon the spinach and feta mixture into the cut part of the salmon fillets. Ensure each piece of salmon is evenly filled with the stuffing, using all of the mixture.
Bake: Place the stuffed salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 17 minutes. The exact timing will depend on the thickness of your salmon and your desired doneness. When done, the salmon should be tender and flake easily with a fork.
Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve hot. You can enjoy it on its own, or serve it with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

how to serve Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta

Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta can be served in various ways. For a simple presentation, place the salmon fillets on plates and garnish with a few fresh herbs, like parsley or dill. You may also add a wedge of lemon on the side for a bit of acidity, enhancing the flavours of the dish.

For a heartier meal, serve your salmon with sides like steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta drizzled with a simple garlic olive oil. Complementing flavors such as lemon butter sauce can elevate this dish further.

how to store Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta

If you have leftovers, store your stuffed salmon in airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to allow it to cool down to room temperature before sealing.

To reheat, you can use the oven at a low temperature (around 325°F or 160°C) until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it may dry out the salmon and affect the texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed salmon. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

tips to make Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta

Choose the Right Salmon: Opt for fresh salmon that’s firm to the touch and has a clean smell. If you can find longer pieces, they work best for stuffing.
Don’t Overstuff: When filling the salmon, avoid overstuffing. This can lead to the stuffing spilling out during baking. Fill it just enough to hold without overflowing.
Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount. For added heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or cayenne into the stuffing.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses. Cream cheese can add creaminess, or mozzarella for a gooey texture. You can also change the type of feta for a different taste.
Prep Ahead: For convenience, you can prepare the stuffing in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble the salmon just before baking for a quick weeknight meal.

variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to mix it up:

Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil in the stuffing for added freshness.
Vegetable Additions: Add other chopped vegetables, such as diced tomatoes or mushrooms, to enhance flavor and texture.
Default Filling: Swap out the feta for other cheese options like goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Grain Fillings: For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked quinoa or couscous to the stuffing mix.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Cooked salmon from frozen may not cook evenly.

2. What if I don’t like feta cheese? If feta is not your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta, or any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella.

3. Is it necessary to stuff the salmon? No, if you prefer, you can simply pan-sear or bake the salmon without stuffing. Just season it well for flavor.

4. Can I prepare the stuffed salmon a day in advance? Yes, you can prepare the salmon and stuffing and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready to eat.

5. What can I serve with Stuffed Salmon? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain like rice or quinoa.

With a recipe as simple and satisfying as Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Happy cooking!