# Best Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta | Easy Gourmet Dinner
**Meta Title:** Best Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta Recipe
**Meta Description:** Discover the best baked stuffed salmon with spinach and feta. A quick and easy gourmet dinner your family will love!
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Picture this: it’s a bustling weeknight, your family is gathered around the table, and you want to serve something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter the **Best Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta**. This dish weaves the rich, buttery flavors of salmon with a creamy, garlicky filling, ensuring every bite sings with taste. Not only is it a feast for your taste buds, but it also makes your kitchen smell absolutely divine!
This recipe has become a staple in my home for all the right reasons—it’s easy to prepare, elegant enough for a dinner party, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Trust me, your family and friends will think you’re a culinary genius (and who wouldn’t enjoy that?). Let’s dive into this delicious world of flavors!
What is Baked Stuffed Salmon?
Baked stuffed salmon is a delightful dish that features fish fillets enveloping a savory filling. The standout elements of this recipe are the **fresh spinach** and **crumbly feta cheese**, combined to create a vibrant and earthy stuffing. The tender fish complements the creamy, tangy filling perfectly, yielding a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Traditionally, salmon is known for its rich flavor and buttery texture, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. The stuffing introduces a mix of *creamy, savory, and slightly tangy notes*, elevating this dish to gourmet status. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, baked stuffed salmon is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta
– **Quick and Easy:** This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. It’s simple enough that even beginners can nail it!
– **Healthy and Nutritious:** Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, and spinach brings in a punch of vitamins A and K. Together, they create a wholesome dish that nourishes both the body and soul.
– **Impressive Presentation:** The bright colors from the spinach and the golden-brown salmon fillets leave a lasting visual impact, making it ideal for any gathering.
– **Flavorful Filling:** The combination of spinach and feta packs a flavorful punch. The creamy feta balances the earthy spinach, and together they create the perfect match for the rich salmon.
– **Versatility:** While this recipe features spinach and feta, you can easily swap in other ingredients like artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes for different flavor profiles.
– **Smells Divine:** The aroma wafting through your kitchen while this dish bakes is absolutely heavenly—think fresh herbs, garlic, and roasted salmon. It’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
– **Kid-Friendly:** Many children enjoy salmon, especially when it’s stuffed and baked. This dish offers a wonderful opportunity to introduce healthy food to your little ones in a delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this sensational baked stuffed salmon, gather the following ingredients:
– **4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)**: The star of the dish, ensuring fresh salmon offers the best flavor and texture.
– **1 cup fresh spinach**: Provide a rich, earthy flavor and vibrant color. You can substitute with frozen spinach if needed.
– **½ cup feta cheese, crumbled**: Adds a tangy, creamy component that contrasts beautifully with the salmon.
– **2 cloves garlic, minced**: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**: Helps sauté the spinach; enhances flavors with its fruity undertone.
– **1 teaspoon lemon juice**: Brightens the dish and adds a touch of acidity.
– **Salt and pepper**: Essential for seasoning to enhance all the flavors of your dish.
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano**: Offers a herbaceous note that pairs well with both fish and cheese.
How to Make Baked Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta
Follow these simple steps to craft your delicious stuffed salmon dish:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). The key to perfectly baked salmon is a nice, even temperature that ensures the fish cooks slowly and retains moisture.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach. Cook while stirring until it wilts down significantly, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. **Mix the Filling**: In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach-garlic mixture, crumbled feta, dried oregano, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
4. **Prepare the Salmon:** Lay the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each fillet. Be cautious not to slice all the way through—just enough to create space for the filling.
5. **Stuff the Fillets:** Generously scoop the spinach and feta filling into each salmon fillet pocket. Don’t be shy—fill them up! This filling is packed with flavor, and you want to ensure each bite is delicious.
6. **Bake the Salmon:** Lightly season the tops of the stuffed salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through but still moist.
7. **Serve and Savor:** Once out of the oven, let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or a lemon wedge to enhance the presentation. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Expert Tips, Tricks & Variations
– **Choose Quality Salmon**: Fresh, high-quality salmon not only enhances the flavors but also delivers better texture. Look for wild-caught salmon if possible!
– **Don’t Overcook**: Salmon gets dry quickly if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should be around 145°F (63°C) internally.
– **Experiment with Fillings**: Feel free to try other fillings such as cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs like dill or basil for a twist.
– **Use Leftover Spinach**: If you have leftover spinach or other greens, throw them in! Chard, kale, or even arugula can work beautifully.
– **Serve with Sauce**: A light lemon-butter sauce or a creamy dill sauce could elevate this dish even further. Simply melt a tablespoon of butter with some lemon juice, and spoon over the salmon when serving.
What to Serve With Baked Stuffed Salmon
Pair your delectable stuffed salmon with a few complementary sides to create a balanced meal. Here are some ideas to inspire your plating:
– **Steamed Asparagus**: The crisp, grassy flavor of asparagus contrasts well with the rich salmon, creating a beautiful balance.
– **Quinoa Salad**: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon pairs brilliantly, adding texture and grains to your plate.
– **Garlic Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy potatoes with a hint of garlic provide comfort and richness, making for a delicious indulgence.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs create a colorful, nutritious side dish that complements the salmon nicely.
– **Simple Green Salad**: A light mixed greens salad dressed with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing touch to your meal.
Storage, Freezing & Meal Prep
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Here’s how to handle storage and meal prep:
– **Storage**: Place any leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 2-3 days.
– **Freezing**: If you’d like to freeze the salmon, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap each stuffed fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Use within 2 months for optimal freshness.
– **Reheating**: To reheat, either bake the stuffed salmon at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes), or microwave for a quicker option. However, do be aware that the texture may differ when microwaved.
– **Meal Prep Tips**: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble and bake the salmon fillets just before serving for a quick gourmet dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?**
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. Simply place it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
**Q2: What can I substitute for feta cheese?**
If you’re not a fan of feta or want to try something different, goat cheese or ricotta are wonderful alternatives that still provide a creamy texture and flavor.
**Q3: Can I make this dish in advance?**
You can prepare the stuffed salmon ahead and store it in the refrigerator unbaked. Simply take it out, let it come to room temperature, and then bake as directed.
**Q4: Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?**
Absolutely! Substitute the feta with a dairy-free cheese or leave it out altogether. You could also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
**Q5: What wine pairs well with stuffed salmon?**
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors of both the fish and the filling.
**Q6: How can I tell when the salmon is done?**
Salmon is perfectly cooked when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Now it’s your turn — grab your ingredients and create this magic in your kitchen tonight! Don’t forget to leave a comment or tag me when you try it. Happy cooking!
