Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without the fuss, let me introduce you to my go-to recipe: Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!). This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner party. It combines tender salmon with a flavorful Mediterranean stuffing that’s sure to wow your guests and family alike.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s also about how quickly it comes together. In only 30 minutes, you can serve a healthy and satisfying meal that looks like it came straight from a fancy restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for any night of the week.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with nutritious spinach and flavorful feta, this stuffed salmon is as wholesome as it is tasty.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant appearance make it a fantastic centerpiece for any meal.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the savory stuffing, making it a great choice for the whole family.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the stuffing based on what you have at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy or complicated for this recipe! Just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious stuffed salmon:

For the Salmon

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

For the Stuffing

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this stuffed salmon recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try using kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy heat, add more cayenne or even some diced jalapeños to kick things up a notch!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your salmon bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place your salmon pieces onto the lined baking sheet with skin-side down. Using a sharp knife, gently slice down the middle of each piece lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a pocket for our delicious stuffing!

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Brush each piece of salmon with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. This not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the fish moist during baking.

Step 4: Sauté Your Spinach Mixture

In a large pan over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, toss in your baby spinach along with Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté just until wilted—this should take only a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Combine Your Filling

Turn off the heat and stir in chopped roasted red peppers along with feta cheese and parmesan. Press down on the feta while mixing; this will help bind everything together nicely.

Step 6: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon generous amounts of your spinach-feta mixture into each salmon pocket until they are evenly filled. Don’t be shy—this stuffing is where all that flavor comes from!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your stuffed salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-17 minutes. The cooking time will depend on how thick your fish pieces are and how you like them done—just keep an eye on them!

And there you have it! Serve hot and enjoy every bite of this delightful Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!).

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

Making stuffed salmon may seem intimidating, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Choose fresh salmon: Fresh fish not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture that holds up better during cooking. Look for vibrant color and a mild smell.

• Prep the filling in advance: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the spinach-feta mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to stuff the salmon, making your cooking process even quicker!

• Use a thermometer for perfect doneness: To ensure your salmon is cooked just right, use an instant-read thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly flaky salmon.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the flavor of your filling by adding different herbs or spices. Fresh dill or basil can add a delightful twist to the classic Mediterranean flavors.

• Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can lead to spills and uneven cooking. Keep the filling generous but manageable!

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

Presenting your stuffed salmon beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the salmon and cheese.
• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or dill on top not only adds color but also enhances the fresh flavors of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the stuffed salmon while adding a nutritious kick.
• Roasted asparagus: Seasoned with olive oil and garlic, roasted asparagus provides a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the tender salmon.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that rounds out this meal perfectly.
• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli adds bright green color and a healthy crunch to your dinner plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your stuffed salmon will not only taste fantastic but also impress anyone who joins you at your table! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling in advance or even bake it ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 2 days.
• Reheating the salmon gently helps maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the stuffed salmon, it’s best to do so before baking.
• Wrap each stuffed piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
• Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you out!

Can I make Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) without feta cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative or use ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile.

What sides pair well with Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)?

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing complement.

How do I know when my Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is done cooking?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145F (63C) when fully cooked. Keep an eye on it as cooking times may vary based on thickness.

Can I use frozen salmon to make Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely before preparing. This ensures even cooking and allows the filling to meld perfectly with the fish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta recipe! It’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings or sides; this dish is versatile and forgiving. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with joy!

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