Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

This Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) recipe is not just a culinary delight; it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare. Ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties or for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, this dish combines the rich flavors of salmon with a Mediterranean-inspired filling of spinach, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers. You’ll find that it’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach, feta, and roasted red peppers adds a delicious Mediterranean twist.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it for an elegant dinner party or as a simple family meal—it’s suitable for any occasion!
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors make this stuffed salmon visually appealing on any plate.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process seamless, gather all necessary tools before starting. This ensures everything flows smoothly as you prepare your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!).

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cuts when preparing the salmon, ensuring even cooking and a clean appearance.
• Baking sheet: This tool is essential for evenly baking the salmon while preventing sticking, resulting in perfect texture.
• Large pan: A large pan is necessary to sauté the spinach mixture efficiently without overcrowding.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

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

For the Filling

• 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 pieces

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 and place the salmon pieces skin-side down on it.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the middle of each salmon piece lengthwise. Ensure that you don’t cut all the way through; keep the salmon flesh attached at the bottom and ends.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

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

Step 4: Sauté the Spinach Mixture

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add in:
* Baby spinach,
* Italian seasoning,
* Paprika,
* Cayenne pepper,
* Salt,
* Pepper.

Sauté for a couple of minutes until wilted.

Step 5: Mix in Other Ingredients

Turn off the heat. Add in chopped roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parmesan to the wilted spinach mixture. Stir well, pressing down on the feta to combine everything into one cohesive mixture.

Step 6: Stuff the Salmon

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

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Place stuffed salmon in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-17 minutes, depending on how thick your fish is and desired doneness. Once cooked through, remove from the oven and serve hot!

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

Serving stuffed salmon can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes and a vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the salmon.

Serve with Quinoa

• Fluffy quinoa, seasoned with lemon juice and herbs, provides a nutty flavor that complements the stuffed salmon beautifully.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• A medley of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, enhances the meal’s color and taste profile.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A wedge of lemon on the side allows guests to add a zesty kick that brightens up the flavors of the salmon.

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

Achieving perfection with your stuffed salmon is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish every time.

• Choose high-quality salmon: Fresh or frozen wild-caught salmon offers better flavor and texture than farmed varieties.
• Preheat your oven properly: Ensuring your oven reaches 400°F before baking helps cook the salmon evenly.
• Don’t overstuff: Fill the salmon pocket just enough so it can hold together without spilling out during cooking.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and feta cheese enhance flavor compared to their dried or pre-packaged counterparts.

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

Pairing side dishes with stuffed salmon can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that matches well with fish.
2. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance and a touch of crunch.
3. Couscous Salad
   A couscous salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs provides a Mediterranean flair that pairs perfectly.
4. Mediterranean Orzo
   Orzo tossed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs creates a delightful accompaniment to the dish.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet grilled corn brings vibrant color and a burst of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offers a lovely balance to the rich stuffing in the salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffed salmon can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-stellar results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season the salmon can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before baking to enhance the taste.
• Overstuffing the salmon: Adding too much filling can cause the salmon to break apart during cooking. Ensure a generous yet manageable amount of stuffing for each piece.
• Using low-quality feta: A poor-quality feta cheese can affect flavor and texture. Opt for good-quality feta for the best results.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for consistent results.
• Ignoring doneness: Relying solely on time without checking internal temperature may result in undercooked or overcooked salmon. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Enjoy within 3 days for optimal freshness.

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

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer-safe bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place salmon on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, taking care not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about more details regarding Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta? Here are some frequently asked questions:

How do I know when my stuffed salmon is done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.

Can I make stuffed salmon ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon earlier in the day. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

What can I serve with Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I substitute other cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you could use goat cheese or cream cheese instead of feta for different flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant dinner parties. Feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables as per your taste!