Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)
There’s something undeniably soothing about the aroma of fish sizzling gently in a pan, mingling with the earthy sweetness of sautéed spinach and the tangy richness of feta cheese. When I think of cozy dinners with my loved ones, Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) always dances to the forefront of my mind. My mother used to prepare it for special occasions, infusing our home with warmth and laughter. As we’d gather around the table, the vibrant colors and delightful flavors not only satisfied our appetites but also our hearts. This easy recipe is as comforting as a warm hug and just as nourishing—let’s dive in!
Why This Recipe Works
- Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, this homemade dish can be whipped up in a hurry. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthful: Made with salmon, a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and packed with fresh spinach, you can feel great about serving this dish to your family.
- Versatile: Change up the filling or seasoning to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.
- Flavor-packed: The pairing of savory spinach and salty feta is truly irresistible.
- Family favorite: Guaranteed to bring smiles to every table, this dish strikes a balance between indulgent and nutritious.
Ingredient Breakdown
- 2 salmon fillets: Fresh or frozen (if using frozen, allow to thaw).
- 1 cup fresh spinach: Rinse well, as this helps remove any grit and makes for a crunchy texture.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese: Crumbled—creamy and salty, offering that perfect tang.
- 1 clove garlic: Minced—adds depth and warmth to the stuffing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the spinach and adding a fruity note.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Lemon wedges: To serve—adds a refreshing brightness!
Substitution Ideas: Swap almond milk for regular milk to make it dairy-free, or use ricotta instead of feta for a creamy twist.
Prep and Cooking Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This quick dinner comes together effortlessly and is perfect for nights when time is of the essence, yet you still want to serve something special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is when the anticipation starts to build!
- Sauté the spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (around 30 seconds). Add the spinach and cook just until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, crumbled feta, and a pinch of pepper. This mixture will be the star of your stuffed salmon.
- Stuff the salmon: Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each salmon fillet. Be gentle; you want to keep the fillet intact! Spoon the spinach and feta mixture into each pocket.
- Bake the salmon: Place the stuffed fillets in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The delightful aroma of baked salmon will fill your kitchen!
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for that perfect finishing touch!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Herb Up: Add herbs like dill or parsley to the stuffing for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese or mozzarella for a creamier filling.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the stuffing for a Mediterranean twist.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Sear the salmon first in an oven-safe skillet before transferring it to the oven—this adds a beautiful crust and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine a dinner table adorned with vibrant sides—lightly roasted vegetables, fluffy quinoa, or a crisp spinach salad. Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta is versatile enough to fit various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant dinner parties. Paired with a refreshing glass of white wine or your favorite sparkling beverage, this dish can elevate any gathering.
Storage and Leftovers
Leftovers can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy this dish later, freezing is also an option: wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then pop it into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 10-15 minutes). The flavor and texture will still be wonderfully preserved, allowing you to relish the joy of this meal once more!
Pro Kitchen Secrets
- Let it rest: Allow the salmon to rest for 5 minutes after baking—this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy.
- Zest it up: A bit of lemon zest mixed into the stuffing adds a delightful kick.
- Keep the skin on: If using skin-on salmon fillets, baking them skin-side down helps to retain moisture.
- Don’t rush the fill: Allow the spinach mixture to cool a bit before stuffing—this keeps the salmon from getting too warm too quickly!
- A touch of spice: Enhance the garlic flavor by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a bit of unexpected heat.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed before preparing.
- Can I make this dish in advance? You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and stuff the salmon just before baking.
- What should I serve this with? It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or your favorite grain.
- How do I know when the salmon is done? Cook until the salmon flakes easily with a fork—perfectly cooked salmon should be tender and moist.
Conclusion
Cooking is a joyful act of love and creativity, and there’s nothing quite like sharing a meal with those you cherish. Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) is not just a recipe; it’s a pathway to warm memories and cherished moments around the dining table. I invite you to bring this dish into your kitchen, to gather your loved ones, and to make your own special memories. So, preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and experience the joy of cooking today! Your taste buds will thank you!
Contents
Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pieces salmon fillets Fresh or frozen (if using frozen, allow to thaw)
- 1 cup fresh spinach Rinse well to remove grit
- 1/2 cup feta cheese Crumbled—creamy and salty
- 1 clove garlic Minced—adds depth to stuffing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the spinach and adding flavor
- to taste salt and pepper
- as needed lemon wedges To serve
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the spinach and cook just until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, crumbled feta, and a pinch of pepper.
- Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each salmon fillet. Spoon the spinach and feta mixture into each pocket.
- Place the stuffed fillets in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.