Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta: A 30-Minute Mediterranean-Inspired Dinner
If you’re searching for a restaurant-quality seafood dinner that’s ready in just half an hour, this Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. Juicy salmon fillets are filled with a creamy, garlicky spinach and feta mixture, then baked to tender perfection. The result? A flavorful, elegant dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
This stuffed salmon recipe delivers bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors while keeping prep and cook time minimal. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy family meal, or a special occasion dish, this 30 minute salmon recipe checks every box: easy, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying.
Let’s dive into why this spinach feta salmon deserves a permanent place in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Salmon Recipe
1. Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Busy schedule? No problem. This easy baked salmon dinner requires minimal prep and cooks quickly in the oven. From start to finish, you’ll have a gourmet-style meal on the table in about 30 minutes.
2. Packed with Flavor
The creamy spinach and feta filling adds a savory, tangy contrast to the rich, buttery salmon. Garlic and lemon brighten everything up, while a touch of oregano gives it a subtle Mediterranean twist.
3. Healthy and Satisfying
Salmon is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it one of the healthiest seafood options available. Paired with nutrient-dense spinach and calcium-rich feta, this healthy salmon with spinach is as nourishing as it is delicious.
4. Impressive Yet Effortless
This dish looks like something you’d order at a coastal bistro, but it’s incredibly beginner-friendly. Even if you’re new to cooking seafood, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: fresh dill, lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat the oven.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. - Prepare the filling.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. - Mix the creamy filling.
In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with feta cheese, cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. - Prepare the salmon.
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet. Be careful not to slice all the way through. - Stuff the fillets.
Spoon the spinach and feta mixture evenly into each salmon pocket, gently pressing to secure the filling inside. - Arrange on baking sheet.
Place the stuffed salmon fillets onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, brush the tops lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. - Bake.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). - Garnish and serve.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon slices before serving.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Salmon
Choose High-Quality Salmon
Fresh, center-cut salmon fillets work best. Look for vibrant pink flesh and a firm texture. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before stuffing.
Don’t Overcook
Salmon cooks quickly. Overbaking can make it dry. Check at the 15-minute mark and adjust as needed.
Secure the Filling
If your fillets are thinner, use toothpicks to help keep the filling in place during baking. Just remember to remove them before serving.
Drain Excess Spinach Moisture
After sautéing spinach, allow it to cool slightly and gently press out any excess liquid. This keeps your filling thick and creamy.
Flavor Variations
One of the best parts about this spinach feta salmon recipe is how adaptable it is.
Sun-Dried Tomato Twist
Add 2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra depth and a hint of sweetness.
Add Fresh Herbs
Mix in chopped parsley or basil for a brighter, herb-forward flavor.
Spicy Kick
Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
Dairy-Free Option
Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based feta substitute.
What to Serve with Stuffed Salmon
This easy baked salmon dinner pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Roasted baby potatoes with garlic
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Quinoa or lemon rice
- A crisp cucumber and tomato salad
- Creamy mashed cauliflower
For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon and Spinach
Salmon is widely celebrated for its omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. It’s also high in protein and B vitamins. Spinach provides iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Feta cheese contributes calcium and a bold, salty flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Together, these ingredients create a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that supports a healthy lifestyle while still feeling indulgent.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make Ahead
You can prepare the spinach and feta filling up to one day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply stuff the salmon and bake.
Storage
Leftover stuffed salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the fish.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This 30 minute salmon recipe is versatile enough for:
- Weeknight family dinners
- Date nights at home
- Small dinner parties
- Healthy meal prep
- Holiday seafood options
It’s quick, elegant, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing it with the cheeses.
Can I grill stuffed salmon?
It’s possible, but baking is easier and helps keep the filling secure. If grilling, use foil to prevent sticking.
How do I know when salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Final Thoughts
This Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta proves that healthy dinners don’t have to be boring or time-consuming. With its creamy, savory filling and perfectly baked salmon exterior, it’s a dish that feels special yet fits seamlessly into busy schedules.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this stuffed salmon recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Once you try it, you’ll see why this spinach feta salmon deserves a regular spot on your weekly meal plan.
Easy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Feta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil, add spinach and cook until wilted. Cool slightly.
- Mix spinach with feta, cream cheese, lemon juice, zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cut pockets into salmon fillets and stuff with filling.
- Place on baking sheet and bake 15–18 minutes until salmon flakes easily.
- Rest briefly, garnish with dill and lemon, then serve.
