Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta

$- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste For this dish, salmon fillets are the star. Their rich flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy filling. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Feta cheese brings a salty bite, while cream cheese adds smoothness. Seasonings like salt and pepper enhance the dish's overall taste. - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - Zest of 1 medium lemon You can add garlic for a strong flavor boost. Red pepper flakes give the dish some heat. Olive oil keeps the filling moist during baking. Lemon zest adds a fresh, bright note that balances the richness of the salmon. - Suggested side dishes: roasted vegetables, a light salad, or garlic mashed potatoes - Best wine pairings for salmon: Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir To round out the meal, pair your salmon with roasted veggies or a crisp salad. Garlic mashed potatoes add a comforting touch. For drinks, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully. This will make your meal memorable and enjoyable. For the full recipe, check out the section above. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps your salmon cook evenly. Next, prepare your workspace by gathering all your ingredients. Now, let’s sauté the garlic. In a medium skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute until it smells great. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, add 2 cups of roughly chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook it for 3-5 minutes until it's wilted and tender. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and let it cool a bit. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. Add some flavor with 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes and the zest of 1 medium lemon. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until it's a creamy filling. Now, let’s prepare the salmon fillets. Take 4 salmon fillets and lay them skin side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each fillet. Be sure not to cut all the way through. Next, generously fill each salmon pocket with your spinach-feta mixture. Press it in gently but don’t overpack it. Once stuffed, season the tops of the fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Now, it's time to bake! Put the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. If you like a crispier top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Serve your delicious stuffed salmon with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor. Enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the details in the previous section. Achieving the perfect flakiness in salmon is key. I recommend cooking it at a steady temperature. Aim for 375°F (190°C). This allows the fish to cook evenly. Overcooked salmon can become dry and tough. To avoid this, check it around 20 minutes. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. To make your stuffed salmon even better, consider adding spices. Fresh dill or oregano works wonders. You can also add fresh lemon juice for brightness. For a creamier filling, blend in more cream cheese. A touch of sour cream can add richness too. Plating can elevate your dish. Place the salmon on a white plate for contrast. A simple bed of greens can add color. For garnishing, try fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A lemon wedge on the side adds a pop of color. It also gives a fresh burst of flavor. For the full recipe and step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can change the filling for your stuffed salmon to explore new tastes. Instead of feta, try goat cheese or mozzarella. Each cheese brings its own flavor and texture. For vegetables, consider using sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes. They add a unique twist to the dish. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or parsley. They make the filling taste bright and fresh. A sprinkle of fresh basil can also add a lovely aroma. Experimenting with different combinations keeps things exciting. If you need gluten-free options, this recipe is already safe. Just double-check the cheese labels. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free feta. This way, you can still enjoy the dish without sacrificing flavor. To boost nutrition, add superfoods like quinoa or flaxseeds to the filling. This adds a crunchy texture and extra health benefits. You can also add chopped nuts for a different flavor and texture. Baking is a popular method for this dish, but grilling offers a smoky flavor. Just be careful not to overcook the salmon on the grill. Cooking it on medium heat helps keep it moist. Another fun method is using an Instant Pot. This technique cooks the salmon quickly while keeping it tender. Set the pot on high pressure for just a few minutes. This method is great for busy nights when you want a healthy meal fast. For the full recipe, check the instructions above. Enjoy your cooking adventure! To keep your baked stuffed salmon fresh, follow these easy steps: - Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container. They stay good for up to 3 days. - Freezing: You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. For the best flavor when reheating, try these methods: - Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the salmon on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15 minutes. - Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals to avoid drying out. - Safety tips: Always check that the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating. Baked stuffed salmon can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Look for these signs of spoilage: - Off smell, which indicates it may have gone bad. - Discoloration or a slimy texture means it’s time to toss it out. Keeping track of these details ensures you enjoy your delicious meal safely! How to make salmon skin crispy? To make salmon skin crispy, start with dry skin. Pat it dry with paper towels. Season with salt. Use a hot pan with oil, and place the skin side down. Cook until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. For extra crispiness, finish under the broiler briefly. Can I use frozen salmon fillets? Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Thaw them in the fridge overnight for best results. If you’re in a hurry, place them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Ensure they are patted dry before stuffing to avoid excess moisture. Caloric content per serving Each serving of baked stuffed salmon has about 400 calories. This can vary based on the size of the fillet and the amount of cheese used. Overview of micronutrients in the dish This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals. You get a good amount of vitamin A from spinach. Feta cheese adds calcium for strong bones. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health. Each serving gives you a blend of protein and essential nutrients. What to serve with baked stuffed salmon? Baked stuffed salmon pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with a fresh salad for crunch. Roasted vegetables add color and flavor. A fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf makes a hearty side. Ideal side dishes for a complete meal Consider these options for a complete meal: - Lemon herb rice - Garlic mashed potatoes - Steamed asparagus - Roasted Brussels sprouts - A light cucumber salad For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy your cooking! Baked stuffed salmon offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. We explored essential and optional ingredients to enhance your dish. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect cooking, and creative variations. Remember, presentation matters, so garnish your plate well. Proper storage ensures you enjoy leftovers safely. With this guide, you can impress anyone at your next meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure with baked stuffed salmon!$

Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta

Elevate your dinner game with baked stuffed salmon and spinach feta! This delicious recipe features tender salmon fillets packed with a creamy spinach and feta filling, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, it's easy to make and full of healthy ingredients. Click through to explore the full recipe and treat your taste buds to this delightful dish!

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Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (look for a creamy variety for better texture)

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for desired heat)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 medium lemon

Lemon wedges for serving (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Sauté the garlic: In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant and golden – be careful not to burn it.

Cook the spinach: Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted and tender, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, stir together the wilted spinach, crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a creamy filling.

Prepare the salmon fillets: Take the salmon fillets and place them skin side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each fillet, being cautious not to cut all the way through.

Stuff the salmon: Generously fill each salmon pocket with the spinach-feta mixture, pressing gently to pack it in securely but not overly tightly.

Season the tops: Once stuffed, lightly sprinkle the tops of the salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.

Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork when done.

Optional broil for crispiness: If you prefer a crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Serve: Plate the stuffed salmon and serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish for an extra burst of flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4