© Original Recipe By Fresh & Fit Recipes ©
🍣✨ Easy Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta – A Delicious Twist on Classic Fish!
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a sophisticated yet straightforward stuffed salmon recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This baked salmon recipes variation combines tender, flaky salmon fillets with an aromatic spinach and feta filling. Perfect for a special weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors that will impress every guest at your table.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, with most of the work done in under 40 minutes
- Healthy and packed with vitamins from fresh spinach
- Rich, creamy feta adds a salty, tangy punch
- One-pan ease makes clean-up a breeze
- Elegant presentation, perfect for dinner parties
3. Ingredient Notes
Opt for high-quality, fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Wild-caught salmon offers a richer taste compared to farmed varieties. The spinach should be fresh—look for vibrant leaves with no wilting or yellowing, ensuring a tender texture once baked. For cheese, choose a good quality feta that isn’t overly salty; European-style feta tends to be creamier and more flavorful, elevating the filling. Fresh garlic and lemon juice will add brightness and depth to the dish, so use fresh ingredients whenever possible to maximize flavor.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To achieve perfect baked stuffed salmon, consider investing in reliable kitchen tools. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is versatile for quick cooking, though an oven works well too. Use a quality Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer for added convenience. A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are essential for prepping ingredients efficiently. For baking, a good baking dish or sheet, like the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set, ensures even heat distribution.
5. How to Make Easy Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta
Preparation of the Filling
Start by sautéing chopped garlic in a drizzle of olive oil until fragrant—that’s when your kitchen will fill with inviting aromas. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted and vibrant green, then remove from heat. Crumble feta cheese into the mixture, mixing well. The result should be a creamy, slightly salty filling that’s easy to spread.
Preparing the Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the filling adheres nicely. Use a sharp knife to create a slit along the side of each fillet, forming a pocket for stuffing. Stuff generously with the spinach and feta mixture, pressing gently to fill the pocket without tearing the flesh.
Baking the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed fillets on a greased baking dish or sheet—lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Drizzle with a little olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for added brightness. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exterior should be slightly golden and crisp on the edges, while the inside remains moist and flavorful.
6. Expert Tips for Success
Ensure not to overstuff the fillets, which can cause tearing during baking. For robust flavor, marinate the salmon briefly in lemon juice and herbs beforehand. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F (63°C) is ideal. Let the fish rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute and keeps the salmon moist. For a crispy top, broil for an extra 2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If feta isn’t your favorite, substitute with ricotta or goat cheese for a milder or tangier profile. For a low-carb option, serve the salmon atop zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Vegetarians can replace the salmon with eggplant or large portobello mushrooms, stuffed similarly with spinach and cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, try almond or coconut-based cheeses.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Be cautious not to overcook, as salmon can become dry if reheated excessively.
9. FAQ
Can I prepare this stuffed salmon ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the salmon with the filling a few hours in advance, then bake just before serving. Keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.
What wine pairs well with spinach and feta stuffed salmon?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the delicate flavors and enhances the feta’s saltiness.
How do I prevent the filling from spilling out during baking?
Make sure to pipe or gently press the filling into the pocket, and avoid over-stuffing. Using toothpicks to secure the slit can also prevent leakage, if necessary.
10. Conclusion
This easy baked stuffed salmon with spinach and feta is a fantastic way to serve up a healthy yet indulgent meal. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to for impressing friends or treating yourself to something special. With just a few fresh ingredients and a handful of kitchen tools, you can create a truly memorable dish that showcases the elegance of home-cooked stuffed salmon recipes.
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Easy Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta
A healthy and elegant baked stuffed salmon with spinach and feta cheese, easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant occasion.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut a slit along the middle of each salmon fillet to create a pocket.
- In a bowl, mix chopped spinach, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each salmon pocket with the spinach and feta mixture.
- Place stuffed salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
- Serve with lemon slices and your favorite sides.
Notes
- Ensure not to overstuff the salmon to prevent spilling during baking.
- You can substitute feta with goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Diet: Healthy, Low Carb
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 340 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg