Few dishes combine elegance and simplicity quite like salmon. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a wholesome meal, Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta – Perfect Dinner Recipe! is guaranteed to impress. Packed with nutritious ingredients like tender spinach, creamy feta, and a touch of smoky paprika, this recipe delivers flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Why This Stuffed Salmon Recipe is a Must-Try
Cooking salmon can sometimes feel intimidating, but this recipe breaks it down into easy, foolproof steps. The vibrant filling adds both visual appeal and a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, while the salmon itself remains tender and flaky. It’s a perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinner routine or create a show-stopping main course for special occasions.
Ingredients for Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta
Before you dive into cooking, gather all the ingredients for this delectable dish.
Salmon and Filling Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
Salmon fillets (6 oz each) | 4 pieces |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons (divided) |
Baby spinach | 3 cups (packed) |
Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
Cayenne pepper | A pinch |
Feta cheese | 5.3-ounce block (150 grams) |
Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup (freshly grated) |
Roasted red peppers (chopped) | ¼ cup |
Salt and black pepper | To taste |
How to Make Stuffed Salmon Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Salmon Fillets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the lined baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the middle of each salmon fillet lengthwise to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Brush the fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the Spinach Mixture
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté the mixture for 2–3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume.
3. Prepare the Filling
- Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped roasted red peppers, crumbled feta cheese, and grated Parmesan.
- Press the feta cheese with the back of a spoon to create a cohesive mixture. The filling should stick together easily.
4. Stuff the Salmon
- Divide the spinach and feta filling evenly between the salmon fillets.
- Spoon the mixture into the pockets you created earlier, pressing gently to ensure the filling stays in place.
5. Bake the Salmon
Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Salmon
- Choose the Right Salmon: Look for fresh, skin-on fillets with a uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overloading the salmon pockets, as too much filling can spill out during baking.
- Test for Doneness: The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Customize the Filling: Add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
Calories | 360 |
Protein | 34g |
Total Fat | 20g |
Saturated Fat | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 4g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 480mg |
Why Spinach and Feta Make the Perfect Pairing
The combination of spinach and feta is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Spinach adds a boost of iron, vitamin A, and fiber, while feta provides a tangy creaminess that complements the salmon beautifully. Together, they create a balance of flavors and textures that elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Salmon
Pair your stuffed salmon with a side dish that enhances its rich flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Lemon Herb Rice: A light, citrusy rice dish adds brightness to the meal.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes pair perfectly with the rich filling.
- Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make a colorful and healthy side.
- Crisp Green Salad: A simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
2. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese or cream cheese works well as a creamy alternative to feta.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the salmon and filling in advance, then refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best results.
4. How can I tell when the salmon is done?
The flesh should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. Can I grill the stuffed salmon instead of baking it?
Yes! Wrap the stuffed fillets in foil and grill over medium heat for about 10–12 minutes.
6. What other fish can I use for this recipe?
Try this recipe with trout, cod, or haddock for a similar result.
Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a meal for guests, Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta – Perfect Dinner Recipe! is versatile and crowd-pleasing. It’s elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough to make on a busy evening.
Conclusion: Ready to Cook?
Now that you have everything you need to make Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta – Perfect Dinner Recipe!, it’s time to head to the kitchen. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients with bold flavors to create a dish that’s sure to impress. Serve it hot with your favorite side dishes and enjoy every delicious bite.
PrintEasy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta – Perfect Dinner Recipe!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Elevate your dinner game with Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta! This flavorful dish combines tender salmon fillets, a creamy spinach-feta filling, and Mediterranean-inspired spices for a meal that’s both elegant and easy to make. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s a guaranteed hit at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3 cups packed baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- 5.3 oz block of feta cheese (crumbled)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup roasted red peppers (chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Fillets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each fillet, being careful not to cut through.
- Brush the fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Spinach Mixture
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume.
- Prepare the Filling
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, and chopped roasted red peppers.
- Mix until the filling is cohesive and sticks together.
- Stuff the Salmon
- Divide the spinach and feta mixture evenly among the salmon fillets.
- Spoon the filling into the pockets, pressing gently to secure it in place.
- Bake the Salmon
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–17 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your preferred doneness.
- Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, skin-on salmon fillets for the best results.
- Adjust the filling with additions like sun-dried tomatoes or pine nuts for variety.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean