Stuff Salmon With Spinach

Stuffing salmon with spinach is a culinary endeavor that combines precision and creativity, offering a nutritious twist on a classic dish.

You’ll begin by crafting a rich filling of spinach, cream cheese, and a hint of lemon zest, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.

As you carve pockets into the salmon fillets, the anticipation builds.

The result promises to be a tender, flavorful masterpiece, inviting further exploration of this delectable preparation method.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Baking sheet
• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 Sharp knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Spoon

Ingredients

• 4 fillets Salmon
• 2 cups Fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup Cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Stuffed Salmon with Spinach, follow this timeline:

1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes):
   • Take a few minutes to read through the entire recipe and gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients.
2. Prep Work (15 minutes):
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Chop the fresh spinach and mince the garlic.
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
   • Season with salt and black pepper, then mix well.
   • Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each salmon fillet by cutting horizontally.
   • Stuff each salmon pocket with the spinach mixture using a spoon.
3. Cooking (20 minutes):
   • Lightly brush the top of each salmon fillet with olive oil.
   • Place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
4. Resting (5 minutes):
   • Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and lemon zest.

Season with salt and black pepper, then mix well until fully combined.

Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each salmon fillet by cutting horizontally.

Stuff each salmon pocket with the spinach mixture using a spoon.

Lightly brush the top of each salmon fillet with olive oil.

Place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.

Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Tips

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers adds a vibrant and nutritious side.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffed salmon.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed grain offers a nutty taste and fluffy texture that pairs well with the dish.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting and hearty accompaniment.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears add a touch of elegance and balance to the meal.

Storage

To store leftover stuffed salmon, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

Reheat gently to maintain its texture and flavor without drying out.

Freezing

To freeze stuffed salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap.

Then, wrap it in aluminum foil.

Store in an airtight container for up to two months.

Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat stuffed salmon, use an oven set to 275°F (135°C) for about 15 minutes to maintain moisture.

Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the fish and filling.

Final Thoughts

Creating a delicious stuffed salmon with spinach is a simple yet impressive dish that can elevate any meal.

With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Remember to let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and guarantees a moist, tender bite.

Enjoy this delightful main course with your choice of sides for a complete, satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Frozen Spinach Be Used Instead of Fresh?

You can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Thaw it, then squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy filling. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Using frozen spinach is a convenient alternative without compromising flavor or texture.

Is There a Substitute for Cream Cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, or ricotta for a smoother texture. Make certain it’s well-drained to maintain consistency. Experiment with mascarpone for a richer, creamy alternative. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

How Can I Tell if the Salmon Is Cooked Through?

Check if the salmon’s cooked by inserting a fork at the thickest part and twisting gently; it should flake easily. The color should be opaque, not translucent, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

What Wine Pairs Well With Stuffed Salmon?

Pair your stuffed salmon with a crisp Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc. These wines’ acidity complements the rich creaminess of the dish. For a red option, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir for a balanced flavor experience.

How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Make certain your substitutions maintain texture and moisture, creating a flavorful, dairy-free stuffed salmon delight.

Stuffed Salmon with Spinach

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Resting Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• 1 Baking sheet
• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 sharp knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Spoon

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 4 fillets Salmon
• 2 cups Fresh spinach chopped
• 1/2 cup Cream cheese softened
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
• Season with salt and black pepper, then mix well until fully combined.
• Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each salmon fillet by cutting horizontally.
• Stuff each salmon pocket with the spinach mixture using a spoon.
• Lightly brush the top of each salmon fillet with olive oil.
• Place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
• Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a crispier texture, you can broil the stuffed salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Ensure not to overstuff the salmon to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking. Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.