Description
This Spinach Stuffed Salmon recipe is a delightful and easy way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Fresh salmon fillets are generously filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, and garlic, then baked to perfection. The result is a moist, tender salmon with a delicious, savory stuffing that complements the richness of the fish. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy, satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a quick family meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely fall in love with this Spinach Stuffed Salmon for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. Second, it’s a healthy and nutritious meal packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. The combination of salmon and spinach provides a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and vitamins A and C. Third, the flavor combination is simply divine. The creamy, garlicky spinach filling perfectly complements the rich, delicate flavor of the salmon. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory note, while the lemon wedges brighten up the dish with a refreshing citrusy zing. Fourth, it’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to your liking. You can add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, or experiment with different cheeses and seasonings. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a delicious and healthy meal, this Spinach Stuffed Salmon recipe is a winner.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off, depending on preference
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added texture and binding)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Preparation:
This recipe is designed for simplicity and efficiency, ensuring a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Skillet
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the optimal temperature when the salmon is ready for baking.
- While the oven is preheating, select a large oven-safe skillet or a baking dish. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the salmon in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
- Place a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, allowing it to heat up for a few seconds.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about a minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. The aroma should be inviting and savory.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down. This reduces the volume of the spinach and makes it easier to incorporate into the filling.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the spinach mixture to cool slightly. This prevents the cream cheese from melting completely when you mix it in the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Spinach and Cheese Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach with the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs (if using).
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. The mixture should be creamy and evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful of the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Step 4: Prepare the Salmon Fillets
- Take the salmon fillets and inspect them to ensure there are no remaining bones. Use tweezers or your fingers to remove any bones you find.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each salmon fillet. Slice horizontally from one side, creating a space for the spinach filling. Be cautious not to cut all the way through the fillet; the bottom should remain intact to hold the filling.
Step 5: Stuff the Salmon and Sear
- Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to ensure it is evenly distributed. Fill each pocket generously, but be careful not to overstuff them.
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in the large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon.
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets skin-side down (if the skin is on) in the hot skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step adds flavor and texture to the salmon.
Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Salmon
- Carefully flip the salmon fillets over using a spatula.
- Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a minute or two before serving.
COOKING Rating:
Easy – This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and busy weeknights. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Spinach Stuffed Salmon warm, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of citrusy flavor.
- Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a complete and nutritious meal.
- Serve it over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or rice to absorb the delicious pan juices.
- A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the salmon.
Tips:
- To prevent the spinach filling from becoming too watery, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the cooked spinach before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the salmon in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish for the oven.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- If you want to add a bit of heat to the recipe, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach filling.
- To ensure the salmon is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C).
- If you’re not a fan of breadcrumbs, you can use ground almond for the crunch.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, approximate)
Calories: Approximately 450-500 calories Protein: 40-45 grams Sodium: 300-400 mg
Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Conclusion
This Delicious Easy Spinach Stuffed Salmon recipe is a winner for anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. The combination of fresh salmon, creamy spinach filling, and bright lemon flavor is a delight to the taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. So, give it a try and experience the joy of creating a delicious and nutritious meal in just a few simple steps.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the filling. Excess moisture can make the filling too watery, affecting the final texture of the dish. Ensure you thaw the spinach well and squeeze out every drop before cooking. This will help maintain the creamy texture and prevent the salmon from becoming soggy.
Q2: What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? Is there a good substitute?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use other hard, aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. These cheeses have a similar salty, savory flavor that works well in the filling. You could also use a milder cheese like Asiago or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor with a vegan option. Pecorino Romano will give a sharper, saltier bite, while Grana Padano is slightly milder and sweeter. Experiment with what you have on hand and enjoy the subtle differences in flavor!
Q3: Can I prepare the stuffed salmon ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed salmon ahead of time. Stuff the salmon fillets and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the salmon from drying out. When you’re ready to cook, take them out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes before searing and baking to allow them to come to room temperature slightly. This will ensure even cooking. The beauty of this recipe is how convenient it is, so prepping in advance can be a lifesaver on busy days.
Q4: I don’t have an oven-safe skillet. Can I still make this recipe?
A: Of course! If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the salmon fillets in a regular skillet and then transfer them to a baking dish lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Sear the salmon as directed, then gently transfer each fillet to the prepared baking dish. Continue baking as instructed in the recipe. The parchment paper ensures that the salmon doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze, so it’s a win-win!
Q5: What other vegetables can I add to the spinach filling?
A: There are many vegetables you can add to the spinach filling to customize the flavor and texture. Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, and chopped onions are all great additions. You could also add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst of flavor or some chopped artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist. Be sure to sauté any raw vegetables before adding them to the filling to ensure they are cooked through. Adding extra vegetables is a fantastic way to sneak in more nutrients and create a more substantial and interesting filling.
