Name: Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4x 6-ounce pieces of salmon; 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided); 3 cups baby spinach, packed; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; A pinch of cayenne pepper; 5.3 oz block of feta cheese; 1/4 cup parmesan, freshly grated; 1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·5 from 16 reviews

If you’re searching for a meal that’s elegant enough for guests yet unfussy enough for a quick weeknight, look no further than Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!). Succulent salmon fillets cradle a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired stuffing of spinach, tangy feta, sweet roasted red peppers, and a hint of spice, all melded together in the oven in just half an hour. This dish bursts with color, freshness, and hearty flavors, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser whether you’re aiming to impress or just treat yourself to something special.

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, quality ingredients that shine both separately and together. Each element plays a role, from the tender salmon to the creamy feta, creating a memorable dining experience with minimal fuss.

Salmon fillets: Look for four long, evenly sized pieces (about 6 ounces each) for easy stuffing and perfect cooking.
Olive oil: Used twice to both sauté the spinach and drizzle over the salmon for added richness and flavor.
Baby spinach: Packs in the greens, cooks down quickly, and adds freshness to the filling.
Italian seasoning: Brings a aromatic blend of herbs that ties everything together.
Paprika: Whether regular or smoked, this adds warmth and subtle color to the stuffing.
Cayenne pepper: Just a pinch for that little spark of heat to balance the creamy cheeses.
Feta cheese: The star of the stuffing, feta provides creaminess, tang, and a salty kick. Choose a block of good-quality feta for the best results!
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano introduces savory depth and nutty flavor to the filling.
Roasted red peppers: Sweet, tender, and colorful, these add a Mediterranean touch and a subtle smokiness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors from start to finish.

How to Make Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Salmon

First, preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place each salmon piece skin-side down and grab a sharp knife. Carefully cut a slit lengthwise down the center of each fillet—think of it as making a little “pocket” for that gorgeous filling. Just be careful not to slice all the way through! Brush each salmon piece with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, setting the stage for perfectly flavorful fish.

Step 2: Make the Spinach and Feta Filling

In a large pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss and sauté until the spinach wilts down (which happens quite quickly!). Then, turn off the heat and stir in the chopped roasted red peppers, crumbled feta, and parmesan. Mash the feta in with the back of a spoon so everything sticks together—this ensures every bite is cheesy and satisfying.

Step 3: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon generous amounts of the spinach-feta mixture into each slit you created in the salmon fillets. Don’t be shy—pile it in until each piece is evenly filled. The contrast of the creamy, herby filling against the rich salmon is what makes Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) so delicious.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Transfer your stuffed salmon to the oven and bake for 12 to 17 minutes. Baking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets and how well done you prefer your salmon. The fish should turn opaque and flake easily with a fork—the perfect cue that it’s ready to serve!

How to Serve Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!)

Garnishes

Give your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) a visual (and flavor!) boost with a shower of fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A little extra squeeze of lemon right before serving can brighten up every mouthful, making each bite feel truly restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, I love pairing this salmon with cooked whole grains—think farro, quinoa, or brown rice—or a twirl of pasta with olive oil and herbs. Simple roasted, mashed, or even steamed potatoes (sweet or regular) also work beautifully, soaking up any cheesy, savory juices from the salmon.

Creative Ways to Present

Make this dish the star of your dinner party by serving it on a large platter, surrounded by colorful grilled vegetables. Or, slice the stuffed salmon crosswise into medallions and arrange atop wilted spinach for a bistro-style look. Even leftovers make wonderful (and envy-worthy!) lunch salads when flaked over mixed greens.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Although Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) tastes best fresh, leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It makes a fantastic next-day lunch or light dinner!

Freezing

If you want to freeze your salmon, simply wrap individual stuffed fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best texture, consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) in the oven at 325°F, loosely covered with foil, until warmed through. This preserves the moistness of the fish and keeps the filling creamy and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh salmon gives the best texture, you can use frozen fillets—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before stuffing. This helps prevent excess moisture in the stuffing.

What can I substitute for roasted red peppers?

If you’re not a fan or just ran out, try sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped) for a punchy, sweet-tart profile. Chopped olives can also add a briny twist!

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Check the thickest part of one fillet with a knife or fork—the flesh should be opaque and easily flake apart, with no translucent pink in the center. Depending on your oven and fish, this usually takes 12-17 minutes.

Can I make these stuffed salmon fillets in advance?

Yes! You can fully assemble the salmon (stuff it and place on the tray), then cover and refrigerate up to 8 hours ahead. Bake just before serving for a dinner party-worthy meal in no time.

What type of feta is best for this recipe?

For the tastiest results, choose a block of sheep’s milk feta stored in brine. It’s creamier and tangier than pre-crumbled feta, giving your Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) an authentic Mediterranean flavor.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta (30 minutes!) honestly never fails to wow me or my guests—it’s the ideal balance of easy prep, stunning presentation, and full-on flavor. Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a favorite at your house too!