Save to Pinterest Tender salmon fillets filled with a savory spinach, feta, and roasted pepper stuffing, then baked to perfection for a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the richness of flaky fish with a creamy, zesty filling that makes every bite feel gourmet.
Save to Pinterest Creating a restaurant-quality meal at home doesn't have to be complicated. By simply slicing a pocket into thick salmon fillets and stuffing them with a sautéed spinach mixture, you transform a standard protein into a moist, savory masterpiece that is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off as preferred)
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
- Step 2
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3
- Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket lengthwise into each fillet, slicing about three-quarters of the way through without cutting to the skin.
- Step 4
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted (or heated through and dry if using frozen).
- Step 5
- Remove from heat. Stir in crumbled feta, grated Parmesan, roasted red peppers, and garlic powder. Mix well and let cool slightly.
- Step 6
- Brush the salmon fillets inside and out with the remaining 1.5 tbsp olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 7
- Divide the spinach-feta mixture among the fillets, gently spooning it into each pocket. Do not overfill; leave a little space at the edges.
- Step 8
- Bake for 12–17 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Step 9
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Always pat the salmon dry to ensure the oil and seasoning adhere properly. When preparing the stuffing, ensure that any excess moisture from the spinach is squeezed out or sautéed away to prevent the filling from becoming watery during the baking process.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a different flavor profile, you can substitute goat cheese for the feta. Adding fresh herbs like dill or a touch of lemon zest to the filling can further enhance the brightness of the dish. For those who enjoy heat, a bit more cayenne pepper can be added to the stuffing.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these fillets with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a citrusy finish. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted potatoes, or steamed asparagus for a complete and balanced meal.
Save to Pinterest This simple baked stuffed salmon is a reliable and elegant choice for any night of the week. With its protein-rich ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean notes, it is sure to become a staple in your healthy cooking repertoire.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How do I prepare the salmon for stuffing?
Carefully create a pocket lengthwise in each fillet by slicing three-quarters through, avoiding cutting entirely. This allows the filling to be tucked inside securely.
- → Can I use frozen spinach for the filling?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before sautéing with seasonings to avoid a watery filling.
- → What is the recommended baking temperature and time?
Bake the stuffed salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 17 minutes, depending on thickness, until it flakes easily.
- → Are there alternative cheeses to use in the filling?
Goat cheese can substitute for feta for a softer texture and slightly tangy flavor.
- → How should I season the filling for best flavor?
The filling benefits from Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, enhancing the savory profile while balancing the cheese and vegetables.