Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Perfect for a dinner party or a healthy weeknight meal, this dish features succulent salmon filled with a vibrant mix of spinach, feta, and roasted red peppers. What’s even better? It all comes together in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: The stuffed salmon looks gourmet but is simple enough for any home cook to master.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The Mediterranean flavors make it suitable for various occasions and palates.
• Minimal Cleanup: With just one pan and a baking sheet, cleanup is a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start preparing your stuffed salmon, gather the essential tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and easy transfer from oven to table.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes precise cuts in the salmon without tearing the flesh.
• Large pan: Ideal for sautéing the spinach mixture quickly and evenly.

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

Cheesy Goodness

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

Extras

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

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

1. Place salmon pieces onto the lined baking sheet, skin-side down.
2. Using a sharp knife, slice down the middle of each piece lengthwise, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
3. Brush each salmon piece with 1 Tbsp of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Spinach Filling

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

Step 4: Combine Filling Ingredients

1. Turn off the heat and mix in chopped roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parmesan.
2. Stir everything together until well combined; press down on the feta to create a cohesive filling.

Step 5: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon the spinach-feta mixture into each cut portion of salmon until evenly filled.

Step 6: Bake the Salmon

Place the stuffed salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-17 minutes based on thickness and desired doneness.

Step 7: Serve Hot!

Remove from oven when done and serve immediately while hot! Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta!

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

Serving stuffed salmon is an opportunity to impress your guests with minimal effort. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can elevate this dish even further.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad adds freshness. Consider mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Over Quinoa or Couscous

• Serve the salmon on a bed of fluffy quinoa or couscous. Both grains absorb flavors well and make for a nutritious base.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Garnishing with lemon wedges enhances flavor. A simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish.

Paired with Steamed Vegetables

• Fresh steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans complement the rich fish nicely. They provide color and nutritional balance.

With Tzatziki Sauce

• A side of tzatziki sauce offers a cool contrast to the warm salmon. This yogurt-based sauce works beautifully with Mediterranean flavors.

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

Perfecting your stuffed salmon takes a few key techniques that ensure delicious results every time.

• Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill the salmon only until full to prevent spilling during cooking.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Monitor the baking time closely based on thickness; thinner fillets cook faster.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and feta provide better taste compared to dried or pre-packaged versions.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like dill or oregano for added depth in flavor.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the salmon to sit for a few minutes after baking; it helps retain moisture.

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

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience when serving stuffed salmon. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair well with salmon’s richness.

2. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted in olive oil adds vibrant colors and flavors.

3. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime offers a refreshing contrast that complements the Mediterranean flavors.

4. Greek Orzo Salad
   This cold salad combines orzo pasta, cucumbers, olives, and feta, making it a perfect match for the warm stuffed salmon.

5. Herbed Polenta
   Creamy polenta flavored with herbs delivers a smooth texture that pairs well with the stuffing’s zestiness.

6. Chickpea Salad
   A protein-packed chickpea salad mixed with tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon dressing is both filling and refreshing alongside the fish.

7. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
   For an extra touch of greens, sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic echoes flavors from the stuffing itself.

8. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, balancing out the savory notes of the stuffed salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed salmon can be a delightful dish, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon for too long makes it dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to properly season the salmon can lead to bland flavors. Always season both the salmon and stuffing with salt and pepper before baking.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted spinach or expired feta may compromise taste. Ensure you use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Skipping the Slicing Step: Not slicing into the salmon may prevent it from holding the stuffing well. Always make a deep enough cut to create space for your filling.
• Rushing the Filling Process: Stuffing too quickly can lead to spills and uneven filling. Take your time to evenly distribute the mixture within each piece of salmon.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store stuffed salmon in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.
• The stuffed salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, covered, until heated through, turning occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

The total time is approximately 30 minutes, including prep and cook time.

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

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.

What is the best side dish for Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

A light salad or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Is Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from salmon and nutrients from spinach, making it a nutritious choice.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is not only quick but also impressively versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences while enjoying its Mediterranean flair. This recipe is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions—give it a try!