Stuffed Salmon With Spinach & Feta

Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta is a rich, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Juicy salmon fillets are filled with a creamy mixture of sautéed spinach, garlic, and tangy feta cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s the perfect combination of healthy fats, lean protein, and bold Mediterranean flavor—all in one beautiful, restaurant-worthy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish looks fancy but comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The stuffing keeps the salmon moist while adding a savory punch of flavor, and the result is a satisfying, nutrient-rich meal with very little fuss. It’s naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with omega-3s and leafy greens—perfect for a wholesome and indulgent dinner.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Fresh spinach
• Feta cheese (crumbled)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika or smoked paprika (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with crumbled feta and cream cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Using a sharp knife, cut a slit into the side of each salmon fillet to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
6. Stuff each salmon fillet with the spinach-feta mixture.
7. Place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle with paprika for color.
8. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 18 minutes
Total time: 33 minutes

Variations

• Use goat cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier, tangier filling.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a punch of umami flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free feta alternative or replace cheese with chopped olives.
• Pan-sear then bake: Sear salmon in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven for a crispier exterior.
• Try different greens: Kale, chard, or arugula can be used instead of spinach.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or gently in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the salmon. Freezing is not recommended for this dish due to the texture of the cheese and greens.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and drain it very well before mixing with the feta to avoid a watery filling.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

It’s up to you. Skin-on fillets hold together well during cooking, but you can use skinless if preferred.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon ahead. Store in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Can I grill the stuffed salmon?

It’s not recommended, as the filling may fall out. Baking is safer and keeps the salmon juicy.

What if I don’t like feta?

Try ricotta, goat cheese, or a mild cream cheese-based filling instead.

Can I add lemon zest to the filling?

Yes, lemon zest adds brightness and complements the feta perfectly.

Is it okay to use salmon steaks instead of fillets?

It’s best to use fillets for this recipe, as they’re easier to stuff and bake evenly.

Conclusion

Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Feta is a flavorful, nutritious dish that brings elegance to the dinner table without the complexity. With creamy, garlicky spinach and savory feta nestled inside tender salmon, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, it’s a standout meal that delivers on every level.

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