You’ll love this stuffed salmon recipe creamy, flavorful, and perfect for your Christmas dinner. It’s quick to prepare and will impress your guests with its delightful taste.
Table of Contents
Stuffed Salmon Recipe Overview
This stuffed salmon recipe combines succulent salmon with a vibrant spinach-feta filling, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare a meal that’s both nutritious and visually stunning.
Key Ingredients for Stuffed Salmon
- 4 pieces of salmon (6 ounces each, approx. 170 grams)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3 cups packed baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 5.3 ounces feta cheese (approx. 150 grams)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers (chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Possible Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to customize your stuffed salmon, consider using sun-dried tomatoes instead of roasted red peppers for a more intense flavor. You can also substitute Italian seasoning with a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme if it’s not available.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Stuffed Salmon
Preparing the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon pieces skin-side down on the sheet.
Next, cut each salmon piece lengthwise down the middle, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a pocket for stuffing.
Brush the salmon with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Making the Spinach-Feta Filling
In a medium pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the baby spinach, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until the spinach wilts and turns vibrant green.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped roasted red peppers, crumbled feta cheese, and grated parmesan. Press the feta cheese into the mixture to combine everything well.
Stuffing and Baking the Salmon
Now, it’s time to fill the salmon. Spoon the spinach-feta mixture into each salmon pocket, ensuring it is filled generously. Bake the stuffed salmon in the preheated oven for about 12 to 17 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon pieces. It should turn opaque and flake easily when done.
Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Salmon
Ideal Side Dishes to Pair
This stuffed salmon recipe pairs beautifully with whole grains like farro, quinoa, or brown rice. You could also serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Beverage Pairings for Christmas Dinner
For a festive touch, consider serving your stuffed salmon with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a hint of lemon will complement the flavors perfectly.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Nutritional Advantages of Eating Salmon
Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. A 6-ounce serving provides approximately 34 grams of protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. It also contains B vitamins, potassium, and selenium, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.
What to Cook Next
FAQs
How do I cut the salmon for stuffing?
To cut the salmon for stuffing, slice each piece lengthwise down the middle while being careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a pocket to fill with your stuffing.
What is the best filling for stuffed salmon?
The best filling for stuffed salmon is a combination of sautéed spinach, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers, which offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Conclusion
This stuffed salmon recipe is a delightful addition to your Christmas dinner. For more inspiring recipes and ideas, check out Elly’s recipes on Pinterest for creative meal inspirations that will make your holidays even more special.
Delicious Stuffed Salmon Recipe for a Festive Christmas Dinner
Equipment
- Oven
- baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- pan
Ingredients
- 4 pieces salmon (6 ounces each) approx. 170 grams
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 3 cups baby spinach packed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika regular or smoked
- pinch cayenne pepper
- 5.3 ounces feta cheese approx. 150 grams
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, placing the salmon pieces skin-side down.
- Cut each salmon piece lengthwise down the middle without cutting all the way through.
- Brush the salmon with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- In a pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat, add spinach and seasonings, and sauté until the spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and mix in the chopped roasted red peppers, feta, and parmesan.
- Fill the cut salmon with the spinach-feta mixture.
- Bake the salmon for 12-17 minutes until cooked through and opaque.