Introduction
Weeknight dinners can often feel like a race against time, but they don't have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. This Delicious Easy Spinach Stuffed Salmon recipe is the perfect solution for busy home cooks looking for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Packed with nutrients, this dish combines the rich flavors of salmon with a creamy spinach filling, making it a gourmet experience that is surprisingly simple to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-quality dish right at your dining table.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the wilted spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and dill. Mix until well blended.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each fillet by slicing lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each salmon fillet with the spinach mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure it stays in place.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each stuffed salmon fillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
FAQs
What can I do if my spinach filling is too thick?
If your filling feels too thick, add a little more cream cheese or a splash of milk to loosen it.
Can I make this recipe with frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the filling.
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Sockeye or Atlantic salmon are both excellent choices due to their rich flavor and texture.
What if my salmon fillets are uneven in thickness?
If your fillets vary in thickness, adjust the cooking time accordingly; thinner fillets will cook faster.
Can I use a different cheese besides Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute with feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
What can I do if my salmon is overcooked?
If your salmon turns out dry, serve it with a creamy sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon to enhance moisture.
Conclusion
This Delicious Easy Spinach Stuffed Salmon is not only quick to prepare, but it also brings a wonderful blend of flavors to your weeknight dinner table. With minimal effort, you can impress your family or guests with a dish that feels indulgent yet is packed with healthy ingredients.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of tender salmon and creamy spinach filling that everyone will love. It's a meal that proves weeknight cooking can be both simple and delicious.
Recipe Card
Delicious Spinach Stuffed Salmon for Quick Dinners
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried dill optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the wilted spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and dill. Mix until well blended.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each fillet by slicing lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each salmon fillet with the spinach mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure it stays in place.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each stuffed salmon fillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
