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Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe

If you love salmon but want to switch things up from your usual baked or grilled routine, you’re going to adore this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe. It’s simple, bursting with flavor, and honestly, it feels kinda fancy without being fussy. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how perfectly the creamy feta and tender spinach complement the rich salmon. Trust me, once you make it, this dish will easily become one of your go-to weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleaser for guests.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-packed but simple: The combination of spinach, feta, and roasted red peppers inside salmon creates a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors.
  • Quick and easy: You’ll have dinner ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Impress guests effortlessly: The presentation looks fancy, but the method is straightforward.
  • Healthy and satisfying: Packed with good fats, protein, and greens, it’s a wholesome meal your whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The flavors in this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe come from a simple, fresh ingredient list, each chosen to complement the natural richness of the salmon. When shopping, I recommend going for fresh, firm salmon fillets and a good quality feta—sheep’s milk feta if you can find it makes a noticeable difference!

Flat lay of four long, fresh pieces of raw salmon fillet with bright pink flesh, a small white ceramic bowl of golden olive oil, a pile of fresh green baby spinach leaves, a block of crumbly white feta cheese, a small white bowl filled with chopped roasted red peppers, a small white bowl holding finely grated pale yellow parmesan cheese, and a white ceramic bowl with a fragrant mix of dried Italian herbs and bright reddish paprika powder, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta, stuffed salmon recipe, salmon fillet stuffed with spinach and feta, easy salmon dinner ideas, flavorful stuffed salmon
  • Salmon fillets: Look for evenly sized pieces about 6 ounces each; longer pieces are easier to stuff.
  • Olive oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor and a good sauté base.
  • Baby spinach: Fresh packs best here—watch out for any wetness because you want it to sauté nicely.
  • Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to elevate the stuffing flavor; you can always mix your own if needed.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness; smoked paprika brings extra depth if you have it.
  • Cayenne pepper: Just a pinch to add a gentle kick without overpowering.
  • Feta cheese: A creamy block feta works better than crumbled here for melting and binding the stuffing.
  • Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for that nutty, salty punch.
  • Jarred roasted red peppers: Chopped finely to add sweet acidity and color inside the stuffing.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, naturally.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe is easy to customize—making it perfect to adapt to what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Don’t be shy about swapping ingredients or playing with the herbs!

  • Go dairy-free: I once swapped feta for crumbled firm tofu and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and it was surprisingly delicious.
  • Add nuts: Toasted pine nuts mixed into the stuffing add a lovely crunch and a nutty layer.
  • Swap peppers: Instead of jarred roasted red peppers, try sun-dried tomatoes for a different tangy twist.
  • Herb swap: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, fresh dill or parsley work beautifully to brighten the flavors.

How to Make Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Salmon Like a Pro

First, preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Now, take your salmon fillets and, using a sharp knife, carefully slice lengthwise down the middle but don’t cut all the way through—you want to create a pocket without splitting the fillet entirely. This step might feel a bit tricky at first, but go slow, and remember, your salmon should still hold together at the bottom and ends. Once sliced, brush them with about a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach Filling

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the baby spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the spinach is fully wilted and fragrant. Turn off the heat, then stir in the chopped roasted red peppers, crumbled feta, and freshly grated parmesan. Press the feta a bit with your spoon to soften and help everything stick together—this makes the stuffing lush and creamy, perfect for filling your salmon pockets.

Step 3: Stuff and Bake

Carefully spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet, dividing it evenly. Don’t be shy with the filling—it’s the star! Then place the stuffed salmon on your lined baking sheet, skin-side down. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 12 to 17 minutes. The exact time depends on how thick your salmon pieces are and how done you like your fish. Keep an eye on it—the salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.

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Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe

  • Knife Safety and Control: I learned that using a super sharp, narrow blade makes creating the salmon pocket so much easier—take your time and don’t rush.
  • Don’t Overstuff: Stuff just enough so you can still close up the salmon fillet slightly—this helps it cook evenly and keeps the filling intact.
  • Check Doneness in the Thickest Spot: I always make a small cut to check the salmon’s color instead of relying solely on timing—your fish will thank you for avoiding dryness.
  • Fresh Over Frozen: Fresh salmon significantly improves texture and flavor in this recipe—you can totally taste the difference!

How to Serve Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I usually finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color and bright herbal note. A lemon wedge on the side is a must—I love the zing of fresh lemon juice right before eating; it lightens up the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, I like serving this salmon with roasted baby potatoes or a simple quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber. Garlic sautéed green beans or a crisp mixed greens salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette also complement the dish wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve plated this recipe on a bed of creamy mashed cauliflower or served it alongside colorful roasted seasonal vegetables arranged like a garden on the plate. Drizzling a balsamic reduction over the top adds sophistication and a hint of sweetness that never fails to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe keep surprisingly well. I store mine in an airtight container in the fridge and try to eat them within 2-3 days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

I’ve frozen cooked stuffed salmon a couple of times wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. While the texture is slightly affected, it still reheats well for a quick meal—just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I prefer warming the salmon gently in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the fish moist and the filling creamy, avoiding the rubbery texture microwave heating can cause.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen salmon for the Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe?

    Yes, you can use frozen salmon that’s been fully thawed, but fresh salmon gives a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to pat the fish dry before prepping to avoid extra moisture in the stuffing.

  2. Is it possible to prepare the stuffing in advance?

    Absolutely! You can make the spinach and feta mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just fill the salmon pockets right before baking to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.

  3. What can I substitute for roasted red peppers?

    Sun-dried tomatoes are a fantastic alternative, adding a slightly different but equally delicious flavor. You could also try sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a savory twist.

  4. How do I know when the salmon is done?

    The best way is to check the thickest part of the salmon—it should be opaque and flake easily when gently poked with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely love this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe because it’s one of those meals that feels special yet is incredibly approachable. I’ve served it at casual dinners and get-togethers, and it always gets raves without me breaking a sweat in the kitchen. I hope you’ll give it a try and find the same joy I have in making and sharing it. It’s the perfect balance of comfort, health, and wow-factor—a true kitchen win!

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Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 109 reviews
  • Author: Mia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines tender salmon fillets with a savory filling of sautéed spinach, feta cheese, parmesan, and roasted red peppers. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. The salmon is carefully sliced to create a pocket for the cheesy spinach stuffing, then baked to juicy perfection.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Salmon

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

Stuffing

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon pieces on it, skin-side down.
  2. Create the Pocket in Salmon: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the middle of each salmon piece lengthwise, making a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through, leaving the bottom and ends attached to hold the stuffing inside.
  3. Season Salmon: Brush the salmon with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside while preparing the stuffing.
  4. Sauté Spinach and Seasonings: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the baby spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and fragrant.
  5. Mix Filling Ingredients: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and grated parmesan. Press down on the feta to soften it and combine all ingredients until they form a cohesive mixture.
  6. Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture generously into the pocket of each salmon fillet, ensuring even distribution of the filling.
  7. Bake the Salmon: Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the preheated oven on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 17 minutes depending on the thickness of the fish and your preferred doneness. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily when done.
  8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • LEFTOVERS: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • For the best texture and flavor, use fresh salmon rather than frozen. Ask your fishmonger for long, uniformly cut pieces around 6 ounces each.
  • Check doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the salmon; it should no longer be translucent and should appear opaque with a whitish-pink color.
  • Use a high-quality block of sheep’s feta stored in brine for optimal taste.
  • Roasted red peppers can be substituted with sun-dried tomatoes if you prefer.
  • If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme or your preferred herb mix.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed salmon fillet (approx. 6 ounces)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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