Looking for a tasty dinner that’s easy to make and sure to impress? Try my Spinach Feta Stuffed Salmon! This recipe blends fresh spinach, creamy feta, and garlic into a savory filling that brings salmon to life. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a delightful dish that is both healthy and delicious. Get ready to learn how to make your new favorite meal!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of spinach and feta creates a creamy and tangy filling that complements the rich salmon perfectly.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, while spinach adds vitamins and minerals, making this dish both tasty and good for you.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to create a gourmet meal in just 30 minutes.
- Impressive Presentation: Stuffed salmon looks elegant on the plate, making it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or use 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon wedges for garnish
To make this dish, we need fresh and tasty ingredients. The skinless salmon fillets provide a lovely base. They are easy to work with and cook well. I love using fresh spinach for the filling. It adds color and nutrition. The feta cheese brings a creamy and tangy taste. Cream cheese helps bind everything together and makes it rich. Garlic and dill add depth. Lemon juice brightens the whole dish.
Don’t forget the seasoning. Salt and black pepper enhance the flavors. Olive oil is great for searing the salmon, giving it a nice crust. The lemon wedges add a zesty touch when you serve the dish. With these ingredients, you create a tasty and impressive meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Filling
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key to getting the salmon just right.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the filling. Combine 1 cup of finely chopped fresh spinach, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. Add 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of chopped dill, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir until well blended.
Preparing the Salmon
1. Take each skinless salmon fillet. Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side. Make sure it’s deep but don’t cut through the other side.
2. Stuff each salmon fillet generously with the spinach and feta filling. Press gently to keep the stuffing in.
Cooking the Salmon
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the salmon fillets, presentation side down.
2. Sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes. You want a golden-brown crust.
3. Once seared, carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Finishing Touches
1. After baking, let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes. This helps the juices stay in the fish, making it moist.
2. Plate the stuffed salmon. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- How to ensure even cooking: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps your salmon cook evenly. When you sear the salmon, keep the heat at medium-high. This gives a nice crust while keeping it tender inside.
- Keeping the salmon moist: Rest the salmon for 2-3 minutes after baking. This step lets the juices spread throughout the fish. You can also use a bit of olive oil when cooking. It adds flavor and helps keep the salmon moist.
Presentation Tips
- Serving ideas with vegetables or salad: Serve the salmon on a bed of sautéed veggies. You can use spinach, zucchini, or asparagus. A light salad on the side also works well.
- Using fresh herbs and lemon for garnishing: Finish your dish by sprinkling fresh dill on top. Add lemon wedges for a bright touch. Both enhance the flavor and make the plate look appealing.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The flavor of your spinach and feta stuffed salmon will shine through when you use the freshest ingredients, especially the spinach and herbs. Look for vibrant greens and creamy feta for the best taste.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it may be tempting to add a lot of filling, overstuffing can cause the salmon to tear or the filling to spill out during cooking. A generous but moderate amount will ensure a perfect cook.
- Check for Doneness: Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure you avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the filling, such as oregano or basil, to customize the flavor profile. A splash of white wine in the skillet while searing can enhance the taste further.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change the cheese in the filling. Try goat cheese or ricotta for a new taste. These cheeses melt well and add creaminess. If you want a stronger flavor, blue cheese works too.
Adding fresh herbs can change the dish's flavor. Instead of dill, use parsley or basil. These herbs give a fresh twist. You can also mix in some red pepper flakes for heat. This adds a nice kick to the stuffing.
Cooking Method Variations
You can grill the salmon instead of baking it. Grilling gives a nice smoky flavor. To grill, preheat your grill to medium heat. Sear the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Make sure it is cooked through.
If you want to try different fish, use trout or tilapia. Both fish have a mild taste. They will absorb the stuffing flavors well. Adjust cooking times as needed, since different fish may cook faster or slower than salmon.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
After cooking, let the salmon cool to room temperature. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Store the salmon in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, reheat it gently. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until warm.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the stuffed salmon if you have extras. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps the salmon fresh for up to three months. To thaw, move the salmon to the fridge overnight. You can cook it straight from frozen, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Always check that the salmon flakes easily with a fork before serving.
FAQs
Common User Questions
How long to cook salmon at 375°F? Cook salmon for 10 to 12 minutes at 375°F. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn't overcook. Perfectly cooked salmon is moist and tender.
Can I make the filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling a day prior. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes your cooking time shorter when you're ready to bake the salmon.
What sides pair well with spinach feta stuffed salmon? Great sides include roasted vegetables, a light salad, or quinoa. These options balance the rich flavors of the stuffed salmon and add freshness to your meal.
Recipe Adjustments
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Make sure it's fully thawed before cooking for the best results.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. All the ingredients are naturally free from gluten. Enjoy this dish without worry if you follow a gluten-free diet.
This blog covered how to make delicious spinach and feta stuffed salmon. We went through the important ingredients like salmon, spinach, and feta. You learned step-by-step instructions for prepping, cooking, and adding tasty touches. We also shared helpful tips on cooking and presentation. Finally, we discussed variations and storage tips to keep your salmon fresh. Now you can make this meal with confidence and impress everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking and share your success!
