Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Creamy Spinach and Cheese stuffed salmon is a delicious and elegant dish. This dish offers a delightful combination of flaky salmon, creamy cheese, and vibrant spinach, making it a perfect choice for a special dinner or a weeknight meal.

What is stuffed salmon made of?

Certainly, here’s a description of each ingredient in your spinach and cheese stuffed salmon recipe:

1. Spinach: Fresh baby spinach leaves are used in the recipe. Spinach is a leafy green vegetable known for its mild, slightly earthy flavor. It adds a vibrant green color and a nutritious element to the filling. Spinach is rich in many nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, folate, and potassium. Spinach also adds some protein to your diet. Every 100 grams of spinach contains nearly 2.9 grams of protein. 
2. Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is a soft, creamy, and mildly tangy cheese with a smooth texture. It serves as the creamy base of the filling, adding richness and a luxurious mouthfeel.
3. Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is a hard and aged cheese with a salty, nutty, and umami flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese is incorporated into the filling to enhance its savory notes.
4. Garlic: Garlic cloves are minced and used in the filling to provide a pungent and aromatic flavor. Garlic adds depth and complexity to the stuffing.
5. Salt and Black Pepper: These seasonings are used to season the filling, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. They provide a balanced and savory taste.
6. Salmon Fillets: Salmon fillets are the star of the dish. They are rich in flavor, high in protein, and offer a delicate yet robust taste. The fillets are the canvas for the spinach and cheese stuffing.
7. Thyme Leaves (Optional): Thyme leaves, if used, add a fragrant and herbal note to the dish. They can enhance the overall aroma and flavor of the stuffed salmon.

The Creamy Spinach and cheese stuffed salmon recipe combines these ingredients to create a flavorful and visually appealing dish. The creamy and cheesy filling complements the natural flavors of the salmon, making it a satisfying and elegant meal.

How to make Spinach Stuffed Salmon?

In a mixing bowl, blend together the chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the filling is thoroughly incorporated.

Carefully create a pocket in each salmon fillet, ensuring not to slice through to the other side. Fill each salmon fillet with the spinach and cheese mixture, dividing it evenly between the two. Optionally, sprinkle some thyme leaves on top.

Position the stuffed salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked and easily flakes apart with a fork. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Once done, remove the stuffed salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a brief period. Serve your Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon while it’s hot, accompanied by your preferred side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

How long should I cook salmon?

The cooking time for salmon in this recipe can vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and your oven’s temperature accuracy. However, as a general guideline, you can bake salmon at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes for each inch of thickness. Here’s a more detailed explanation:

1. Measure the thickest part of your salmon fillet.
2. For every 1 inch (2.54 cm) of thickness, bake the salmon for approximately 12-15 minutes.
3. Check the salmon’s doneness by inserting a fork or the tip of a knife into the thickest part. The salmon should easily flake apart, and its internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on factors like the initial temperature of your salmon (room temperature or straight from the refrigerator), the accuracy of your oven, and personal preferences for salmon doneness (some prefer it slightly undercooked, while others like it fully cooked). It’s always a good practice to use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches the desired internal temperature for safety and doneness.

What side dishes go best with salmon?

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some side dish ideas that complement the flavors of the salmon:

1. Roasted or Baked Vegetables: Roasting vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasonings can add a flavorful and nutritious element to your meal. Here are some ideas:
   • Parmesan Baked Asparagus
   • Zucchini Feta Skewers
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with fresh herbs, diced vegetables, and a light vinaigrette can provide a wholesome and vibrant contrast to the rich salmon. Here are some salad pairings:
   • Mango Quinoa Salad
   • Avocado Quinoa Salad
3. Couscous: Fluffy couscous cooked with herbs, lemon zest, and a touch of olive oil can complement the flavors of the salmon beautifully. Here is Ptitim with Homemade Pesto recipe.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds a fresh and crisp component to your plate. Here is a delicious Green Goddess Salad recipe.
5. Garlic Bread or Baguette: Crusty garlic bread or a freshly baked baguette can be used to soak up any delicious sauce or juices from the salmon. Here are some bread recipes:
   • Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
   • Crispy Garlic Bread

The choice of side dishes depends on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Feel free to mix and match side dishes to create a well-rounded and enjoyable dining experience alongside your spinach and cheese stuffed salmon.