Name: Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Salmon:; 4 salmon fillets; salt and pepper; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; For Filling:; 4 oz cream cheese; 4 oz frozen spinach; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; 2 tsp garlic; salt and pepper; For Garlic Butter (optional):; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp garlic; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Indulge in a delightful meal with creamy spinach stuffed salmon. This dish features succulent salmon fillets filled with a rich and creamy spinach mixture, then cooked to perfection. Ideal for a special dinner or a simple weeknight meal, it's a recipe that stands out with its exquisite flavors and textures.

Photos of Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you may need to purchase salmon fillets, cream cheese, and frozen spinach. These ingredients might not be staples in every household but are easily found in most supermarkets. Ensure you have these items on hand to create this delicious dish.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe

Salmon fillets: Fresh cuts of salmon, ideal for stuffing and cooking.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the dish.

Lemon juice: Provides a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the fish.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the salmon, adding richness and depth.

Unsalted butter: Adds a smooth, creamy texture and flavor.

Cream cheese: The base for the creamy spinach filling.

Frozen spinach: Thawed and squeezed dry to mix with the cream cheese.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the filling.

Garlic: Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic essence.

One reader, Anny Easter says:

This creamy spinach stuffed salmon recipe is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, and the garlic butter sauce adds a delightful touch. It's easy to make and feels gourmet. Highly recommend!

Anny Easter

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

How to cut a pocket in salmon: Carefully slice a slit or pocket about ¾ of the way through the salmon fillet without cutting all the way through. How to squeeze excess liquid from spinach: Use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to press and squeeze out the liquid from the thawed spinach. How to mix filling ingredients: Combine the spinach, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and garlic in a bowl, then season with salt and pepper. How to fill salmon pockets: Use a spoon to evenly spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the spinach mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet. How to fry salmon: Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the salmon fillets until golden on both sides and cooked through. How to make garlic butter sauce: Melt butter in the pan with remaining oil and juices, add garlic and lemon juice, and sauté until fragrant. How to bake salmon: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, place the stuffed salmon fillets in a greased baking pan, and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until cooked through.

How To Make Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Indulge in a savory and creamy meal with this stuffed salmon! It’s packed with spinach, cream cheese, and parmesan for a tasty, low carb dish.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salmon:

4salmon fillets,skinless
salt and pepper,to season
2tbsplemon juice
2tbspolive oil,divided
1tbspunsalted butter

For Filling:

4ozcream cheese,at room temperature
4ozfrozen spinach,thawed
¼cupparmesan cheese,finely grated
2tspgarlic,minced
salt and pepper,to taste

For Garlic Butter (Optional):

1tbspunsalted butter
1tbspgarlic,minced
1tbsplemon juice

Instructions

Place each salmon fillet on a flat surface. Season both sides with salt, pepper, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and lemon juice.
Cut a slit or pocket about ¾ quarter of the way through, being careful not to cut all the way.
Squeeze excess liquid out of the spinach and discard liquid.
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the spinach, cream cheese, parmesan cheese and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
Fill salmon ‘pockets’ with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the spinach dip, spreading evenly with the back of the spoon.
Heat butter and remaining oil in a skillet or non stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the salmon and fry for about 6 to 7 minutes until golden. Carefully flip and allow to cook on the other side until golden and cooked through.
Optionally, cover with a lid and continue cooking for a further 2 to 3 minutes, if necessary, until cooked through. Transfer to a warm plate.

Garlic Butter:

Melt the butter in the remaining oil and juices in the pan leftover from the salmon. Add the garlic and lemon juice, then sauté until the garlic is fragrant.
Remove and serve with the salmon. Enjoy!

For Oven Baked Salmon:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Place the stuffed salmon fillets in a shallow lightly greased baking pan.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Serve with garlic butter sauce, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1089.33kcal
Fat: 78.01g
Saturated Fat: 23.72g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 24.51g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 16.86g
Carbohydrates: 6.32g
Fiber: 1.48g
Sugar: 1.45g
Protein: 87.31g
Cholesterol: 270.57mg
Sodium: 1148.21mg
Calcium: 223.82mg
Potassium: 1710.30mg
Iron: 2.70mg
Vitamin A: 305.32µg
Vitamin C: 28.94mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

When making the filling for the salmon, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature. This will make it easier to mix with the spinach and parmesan cheese, resulting in a smoother, more cohesive mixture that will stay in place while cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare the filling ahead: Mix the spinach, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use fresh spinach: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen to skip the step of squeezing out excess liquid.

Preheat the oven: If baking, preheat the oven while preparing the salmon fillets to streamline the process.

One-pan method: Cook the garlic butter sauce in the same pan used for the salmon to save on cleanup time.

Uniform fillets: Ensure all salmon fillets are of similar size for even cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe

salmon fillets - Substitute with trout fillets: Trout has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative to salmon.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different texture and flavor but works well in most recipes.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to avoid black specks in the dish.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, suitable for cooking fish.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a rich, nutty flavor, making it a good alternative to butter.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture and can be used as a filling.
frozen spinach - Substitute with fresh spinach: Fresh spinach can be sautéed and used in place of frozen spinach for a fresher taste.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly saltier flavor, making it a good substitute.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option with a slight coconut flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic for convenience, though the flavor will be less intense.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess, making it a good alternative.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Select a pristine white plate: Use a large, white plate to create a clean canvas that will make the colors of the salmon and spinach filling pop.
Position the salmon fillet elegantly: Place the stuffed salmon fillet slightly off-center on the plate, allowing room for other elements to complement the dish.
Add a vibrant vegetable garnish: Arrange a small bundle of blanched asparagus spears or baby carrots next to the salmon for a burst of color and texture.
Drizzle with garlic butter sauce: Using a small spoon, drizzle the garlic butter sauce artistically around the salmon and vegetables, ensuring some of it pools slightly under the salmon for added flavor.
Incorporate microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of microgreens or fresh herbs like dill or parsley over the top of the salmon to add a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Add a citrus element: Place a thin lemon slice or a twist of lemon zest on top of the salmon or on the side of the plate to enhance the dish with a hint of acidity.
Create a textural contrast: Add a small mound of toasted pine nuts or crisped capers on the plate to provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling and tender salmon.
Finish with a touch of seasoning: Lightly sprinkle sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper over the entire dish to enhance the flavors and add a final touch of sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. Essential for cooking the salmon fillets to a golden finish.
Non-stick pan: A pan coated with a non-stick surface to prevent food from sticking, making it easier to cook delicate items like salmon.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used to combine ingredients. Necessary for mixing the spinach, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and garlic for the filling.
Spatula: A broad, flat utensil used for flipping and spreading. Useful for flipping the salmon fillets and spreading the spinach filling.
Knife: A sharp blade used for cutting. Needed to create pockets in the salmon fillets and to chop garlic if not using pre-minced.
Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting. Essential for safely cutting the salmon and garlic.
Measuring spoons: Spoons used to measure small quantities of ingredients accurately. Important for measuring garlic, lemon juice, and other seasonings.
Measuring cups: Cups used to measure larger quantities of ingredients. Useful for measuring the parmesan cheese and other bulk ingredients.
Oven: A thermally insulated chamber used for baking. Necessary if you opt to bake the salmon fillets instead of frying them.
Baking pan: A shallow pan used for baking foods in the oven. Required for placing the stuffed salmon fillets if you choose the oven-baked method.
Tongs: A tool used to grip and lift objects. Handy for flipping the salmon fillets without breaking them.
Lid: A cover used to trap heat and moisture. Useful for covering the skillet to ensure the salmon cooks through.
Spoon: A utensil used for stirring and serving. Needed for mixing the filling and for adding the garlic butter sauce.
Paper towels: Absorbent paper used for drying or cleaning. Useful for squeezing excess liquid out of the spinach.
Plate: A flat dish used for serving food. Necessary for transferring the cooked salmon fillets before serving.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

To store leftover creamy spinach stuffed salmon, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Refrigerate the leftover salmon for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed salmon. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped salmon pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, labeling it with the date of freezing.
Frozen creamy spinach stuffed salmon can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat frozen salmon, first thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the wrapping and place the salmon in a baking dish.
Cover the baking dish with foil and reheat the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the salmon to dry out.
If you have leftover spinach and cream cheese filling, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can use this filling for other recipes or as a spread for crackers or bread.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the fillets with a little olive oil or melted butter to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the cream cheese filling is warm and gooey.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the creamy spinach stuffed salmon in the microwave. Place the fillets on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can quickly become dry and rubbery in the microwave.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover salmon fillets. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the fillets in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the filling is warm. This method will help to crisp up the exterior of the salmon while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
For a stovetop option, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the leftover salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is heated through and the filling is warm. Be gentle when flipping the fillets to avoid breaking them apart.
If you want to get creative with your leftovers, try flaking the salmon and mixing it with the creamy spinach filling. Use this mixture as a filling for tacos, quesadillas, or stuffed peppers. You can also toss the flaked salmon and filling with some cooked pasta and a little extra cream or olive oil for a quick and easy pasta dish.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

A random fact about this recipe is that salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the spinach in the filling provides a good dose of vitamins A and C, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Is Making Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon at Home Cost-Effective?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this creamy spinach stuffed salmon recipe, it scores an impressive 8 out of 10. The primary ingredients, such as salmon fillets, cream cheese, and frozen spinach, are relatively affordable and widely available. The use of olive oil and lemon juice adds a burst of flavor without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of four, the approximate cost is around $25-$30 USD, making it a budget-friendly option for a gourmet meal.

Is This Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Healthy?

This creamy spinach stuffed salmon recipe has both healthy and indulgent elements. On the positive side, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. Spinach is also a nutrient-dense ingredient, providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, the recipe includes significant amounts of cream cheese, butter, and Parmesan cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories. While these ingredients contribute to the dish's rich flavor, they may not be the healthiest choices when consumed in excess.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cream cheese and Parmesan cheese in the filling, or opt for lower-fat alternatives like ricotta or feta cheese
Use olive oil instead of butter for cooking the salmon and preparing the garlic butter sauce
Increase the amount of spinach in the filling to boost the nutrient content and reduce the proportion of cheese
Serve the salmon with a side of colorful, non-starchy vegetables to balance out the meal and add more fiber
Limit the portion size of the stuffed salmon and complement it with a light, fresh salad or whole grain to create a well-rounded plate

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe

This creamy spinach stuffed salmon recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The cream cheese and spinach filling adds a rich, savory element that complements the tender, flaky salmon perfectly. The addition of garlic butter sauce enhances the dish with a subtle, aromatic finish. The option to bake or pan-fry offers versatility, catering to different cooking preferences. Overall, it's a sophisticated yet straightforward dish that promises to impress both in presentation and taste.

Enhance Your Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy goodness of potatoes infused with the rich aroma of roasted garlic. This side dish pairs perfectly with the creamy spinach stuffed salmon, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The buttery smoothness of the mashed potatoes will complement the savory salmon filling, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad bursting with the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. The light and fluffy quinoa provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich and creamy salmon. Tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a hint of mint, this salad adds a vibrant and healthy touch to your meal.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a luscious honey sauce. These carrots bring a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory spinach stuffed salmon. The honey glaze caramelizes the carrots, adding a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor with every bite.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Crisp and tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a generous sprinkle of garlic and parmesan cheese. This side dish adds a touch of elegance and a burst of umami to your salmon dinner. The asparagus provides a fresh and slightly nutty flavor that complements the creamy filling of the salmon.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A vibrant and refreshing salsa made with juicy mangoes and creamy avocado. This tropical-inspired side dish adds a burst of color and a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors to your salmon meal. The mango and avocado create a creamy and luscious texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich salmon.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Dive into a plate of succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner. Serve it over a bed of pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Stuffed Chicken Breast With Spinach And Cheese: Transform your ordinary chicken breast into a gourmet delight by stuffing it with a creamy mixture of spinach and cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also visually impressive, making it perfect for a special dinner at home.

Lemon Herb Baked Cod: Enjoy a light and refreshing meal with lemon herb baked cod. The cod fillets are seasoned with a blend of lemon juice, herbs, and a touch of olive oil, then baked to perfection. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon: Indulge in a rich and creamy Tuscan-inspired salmon dish. The salmon fillets are cooked in a luscious garlic cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in.

Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Savor the flavors of Italy with spinach and ricotta stuffed shells. These pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and spinach, then baked in a rich marinara sauce. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. The earthy mushrooms are filled with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and herbs. A touch of garlic and butter adds depth, while a sprinkle of parsley brings a fresh finish. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and pair wonderfully with a glass of white wine.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Crispy baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar elevate the flavors. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also bursts with fresh, zesty notes that will leave your guests craving more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent chocolate lava cake that oozes rich, molten chocolate with every bite. This dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm, gooey center contrasts beautifully with the slightly crisp exterior, creating a symphony of textures and flavors. For an added touch of elegance, garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. This dessert is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a tangy and sweet lemon meringue pie. The zesty lemon curd filling is perfectly balanced by a light and fluffy meringue topping. The buttery pie crust adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. For a touch of sophistication, add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top. This dessert is a timeless classic that brings a burst of sunshine to any table.

Why trust this Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon and spinach with a creamy cream cheese filling, creating a delightful dish that's both nutritious and delicious. The use of garlic and lemon juice enhances the taste, while the option to bake or pan-fry offers flexibility. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward instructions, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.

If you're looking for more delicious and healthy seafood recipes like this Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon, be sure to check out the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

I usually check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should be 145°F.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just make sure to sauté the fresh spinach first to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the cream cheese and parmesan.

What can I serve with this stuffed salmon?

I love pairing it with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or some garlic mashed potatoes. It also goes great with a light pasta dish.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to give it a good stir before stuffing the salmon.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Both will give you a creamy texture without the heaviness of cream cheese.