This easy baked salmon is filled with tasty spinach and creamy feta cheese. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy dinner that’s packed with flavor!
The bright colors and delicious smells will impress anyone at your table. I love serving it with a side of rice or veggies for a complete meal that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find it, try substituting with trout or even chicken breasts for a different flavor. Just adjust cooking time as needed!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice vibrant color, but frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a unique tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, ricotta cheese can be a milder alternative, but it will change the taste a bit.
Roasted Red Peppers: These add a nice sweet flavor and color. You can use fresh bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist, or skip them altogether if you prefer a simpler filling!
Cream Cheese: This is optional but makes the filling creamier. You could also use Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative or omit it if you want a firmer texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your salmon just right can be tricky. The key is to cook it slowly and avoid overcooking. Here are some tips:
- Keep an eye on the cooking time, usually 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is spot on for medium-rare.
- Look for the salmon to flake easily with a fork when it’s done. If it looks too opaque, it might need more time.
- If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer! Salmon is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Letting it rest a couple of minutes after baking lets the juices settle, ensuring the salmon stays moist and flavorful!
Easy Baked Salmon Stuffed With Spinach and Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, diced
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for creamier filling)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes of baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Cook the Spinach:
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté it until it’s nice and fragrant—this should take about a minute. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook it for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts. Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the wilted spinach, crumbled feta cheese, diced roasted red peppers, and cream cheese (if you decided to use it for a creamy touch). Mix everything together until well blended.
4. Prepare the Salmon:
Using a sharp knife, carefully make a lengthwise slit or pocket in the thickest part of each salmon fillet. This is where you’ll stuff the yummy filling, so be sure not to cut all the way through!
5. Stuff the Fillets:
Now, take the spinach and feta mixture and stuff it into each salmon fillet pocket. Press gently to fill the pocket nicely without tearing the fish.
6. Season and Bake:
Place the stuffed salmon fillets into your prepared baking dish. Season the outside with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve:
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful, nutrient-packed salmon stuffed with spinach and feta! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfies with every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Spinach for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well—just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture. This will prevent the filling from becoming watery.
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute feta with goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or use ricotta for a milder taste. Just remember that this will slightly change the overall flavor profile of the dish.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the salmon fillets ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. I’d recommend cooking them within 24 hours for the best taste and texture.
