Herb Cream Cheese Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta

Try this stuffed salmon recipe that's both delicious and healthy! My herb cream cheese and spinach filling is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Hooking You In: My Love for Stuffed Salmon

Oh my gosh, if you haven’t tried a stuffed salmon recipe yet, what are you even doing with your life? seriously! this dish combines the fresh flavors of the ocean with a creamy filling that’ll knock your socks off.

Picture this: buttery salmon bursting with tangy cream cheese, rich feta, and vibrant spinach. just writing about it makes my mouth water!

Salmon is a big deal in the pacific northwest—where i grew up—and for good reason. it’s versatile and downright delicious! honestly, this dish is great for weeknights or even date nights.

It takes about an hour from start to finish, and trust me, you’ll feel like a rockstar when you serve it up.

With this herb cream cheese stuffed salmon , you’ll impress everyone at the table. plus, it serves four, making it perfect for a small gathering or cozy family dinner.

Health Benefits That Matter

You know what’s neat about this dish? it’s not just tasty—it’s healthy, too! packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and tons of nutritious spinach, this is one of those healthy dinner recipes no starch people rave about.

It fits right into those healthy stuffed salmon recipes you might be looking for! honestly, this is one of those meals that makes you feel good inside while you enjoy every bite.

Think of it for special occasions like anniversaries, holiday dinners, or even casual get-togethers with friends. what makes it special is not just the flavors, but the memories you create while making it.

I remember the first time i tried this recipe—it was my first attempt at impressing someone special. spoiler alert: it worked!

So, let’s get to the fun part—the ingredients! Trust me; you’ll want to gather everything for this delightful adventure in your kitchen.

Ingredients & Equipment for Your Stuffed Salmon Adventure

So, you’re ready to whip up a Cream Cheese And Spinach Stuffed Salmon that’s absolutely going to be the star of your dinner table? Let’s dive into what you need.

Main Ingredients:

To kick things off, here’s what you’re gonna need:

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces (226 g) of cream cheese, softened – Make sure it’s really creamy and spreadable; nobody wants a lumpy filling.
• 1 cup (30 g) of fresh spinach, finely chopped – Fresh is key. It brings brightness!
• ½ cup (75 g) of feta cheese, crumbled – Go for tangy and fresh here.
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill if that’s what you have lying around).
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
• Salt and pepper to taste – The classic flavor enhancers.

For the Salmon:

• 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on – Look for vibrant skin; it means fresh fish!
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of olive oil – This adds a bit of richness.
• Lemon wedges for serving – A squeeze of lemon brightens flavors like nobody’s business.

Equipment Needed:

You don’t need a ton of fancy gadgets for this. Here’s the essential toolkit:

• A baking dish – Glass or metal will work just fine.
• A mixing bowl – To combine all that delicious filling.
• A sharp kitchen knife – Seriously, it makes life easier when carving those salmon fillets.
• A cutting board – You know, for chopping like a pro.
• A spoon for stuffing – Get into those salmon pockets, baby!

Seasoning Notes

Now, onto seasoning! The beauty of this healthy stuffed salmon is that it’s all about balance.

• Essential spice combos: Dill, garlic, and lemon work wonders together.
• Flavor enhancers: Try a little smoked paprika if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Quick substitutions: No feta? Goat cheese totally works. And if you don’t have fresh dill, dried works in a pinch.

Cooking Tips

Trust me, you’ll want to follow these steps to nail this dish. pay close attention while baking – your salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145° f ( 63° c) .

It’ll be flaky and flavorful!

With everybody’s new favorite dish on your dinner plate and the smell wafting through your kitchen, I’d say you’re set for a delightful meal. Happy cooking!

Cooking Method

Getting Ready to Cook

Alright, folks! let’s dive into this stuffed salmon recipe that's just begging to impress your friends and family. before we get started, let's talk mise en place .

It sounds fancy, right? but really, it just means you’ll want to have everything prepped and ready to go. chop your spinach, measure out your cream cheese, and have your feta at the ready.

This little habit saves you from scrambling around while you’re trying to cook – trust me!

Also, a pro tip: time-saving organization is key here. lay out all your ingredients on the counter. it’s like setting the stage for a great meal.

And don’t forget your safety reminders! keep that knife away from your fingers, and watch out for that hot oven.

You don’t want any burn stories to ruin your night.

Step-by-Step Magic

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Here’s how to whip up that mouth-watering Cream Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Salmon :

1. Mix the filling: in a bowl, blend 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of chopped spinach , ½ cup of crumbled feta , 2 tablespoons of dill , and 2 cloves of minced garlic .

   Add salt and pepper. once it’s creamy and mixed, you’re golden!

2. Prepare the salmon: lay those 4 salmon fillets skin-side down. make shallow cuts on the flesh and create a pocket without cutting through the skin.

   This is where that delicious filling will go!

3. Stuff It Up: Generously fill each salmon pocket with that cream cheese mixture. Press it down gently. Don’t overstuff, or you’ll have a messy situation – no one wants that!

4. Bake it: preheat your oven to 375° f ( 190° c) . drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over your stuffed fillets and pop them into a baking dish.

   Cook for 20 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and hits 145° f ( 63° c) inside.

5. Serve it right: grab your tongs, plate that salmon up, and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. a squeeze of lemon brings it all together beautifully! enjoy the ooohs and aaahs while you eat.

Pro Tips to Remember

Oh my gosh, i can't tell you how many times i’ve stuffed salmon and ended up with filling everywhere! don’t overstuff ! and be sure to let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking.

It’ll keep those juices in, making for a perfectly tender bite.

If you’re looking to make it ahead, feel free to prepare the filling the night before and chill it. Just stuff the salmon right before baking for an easy dinner.

In short, this herb cream cheese stuffed salmon is not just a dish; it’s an experience! from healthy stuffed salmon recipes to fish with spinach recipes , this dish fits right into a healthy dinner without being overly complicated.

So roll up those sleeves, and let’s make a meal worth celebrating!

Recipe Notes to Elevate Your Herb Cream Cheese Stuffed Salmon

Serving Suggestions That Wow!

Okay, you've just whipped up this fabulous cream cheese and spinach stuffed salmon , and now it's time to serve it up! plating is everything, right? think about laying your salmon on a bed of arugula for that pop of green.

Toss on some roasted cherry tomatoes for that splash of color. honestly, it looks like fine dining right at home!

And what about sides? you can’t go wrong with garlic mashed potatoes or a vibrant seasonal veggie medley . if you're feeling extra fancy, maybe a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc will do the trick.

Trust me; you’ll impress everyone at the table!

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you find you’ve got some of that delicious stuffed salmon leftover (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), here’s how to keep it fresh.

First up, you’ll want to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. it'll last about 3-4 days .

Pro tip: reheat it in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 10- 15 minutes. this will keep your salmon from getting dried out.

Now, if you’re a meal prepper like me, you might want to freeze some portions. just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.

It’ll keep for about 2-3 months ! thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ll be set.

Make It Your Own!

One of my favorite parts of this healthy stuffed salmon recipe is how you can switch things up! going dairy-free? use cashew cream instead of cream cheese.

Want more zing? toss in some lemon zest to the filling. if it’s summer and you want to swap for seasonal ingredients, try throwing in fresh herbs like basil or even zucchini .

Your kitchen becomes a playground!

Nutrition Basics to Keep In Mind

Let’s talk about what's actually in your buttery, flaky fish meal. this creamed spinach stuffed salmon serves up about 350 calories but packs a protein punch with 30 grams ! plus, there's more salad on your plate, so it’s a win-win.

Salmon’s full of those good fatty acids (omega-3, anyone?) that'll have your heart smiling. it’s what i call a meal where taste meets health!

So, whether you're prepping this gem as part of your healthy dinner recipes for two , or celebrating the everyday, let the flavors do the talking.

Look into into this stuffed salmon recipe and make it yours! you got this! happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to stuff salmon?

The key to a successful stuffed salmon recipe is creating a pocket in the fillet without cutting through the skin. Use a sharp knife and gently slide it into the side, then fill it with your herb cream cheese mixture. Make sure to press down gently to ensure the filling is secure but don’t overstuff!

Can I prepare the stuffed salmon filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the herb cream cheese filling a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a vibrant taste when you’re ready to stuff the salmon.

What sides go well with the stuffed salmon dish?

The stuffed salmon pairs wonderfully with a light salad of mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon makes for a refreshing complement as well!

How can I store leftover stuffed salmon?

If you have any leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and then wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Just gently reheat them in the oven or a microwave, being careful not to overcook the salmon!

What variations can I try with this stuffed salmon recipe?

You can get creative with the filling! Try adding chopped artichokes for a spinach and artichoke twist, or incorporate some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you're feeling adventurous, smoked salmon can bring a lovely smoky flavor to the dish!

Is stuffed salmon healthy?

This dish can definitely be part of a healthy diet! Salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids that are great for heart health. Just be mindful of the portion sizes and try to balance it with fresh vegetables on the side for a well-rounded meal.

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