Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s walk through how to prepare this delicious dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, roughly 2 minutes more.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sautéed spinach mixture. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
- Take the salmon fillets and place them on a clean surface. Carefully cut a pocket in each fillet, being sure not to cut all the way through.
- Generously stuff each salmon fillet with the creamy spinach mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed salmon in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges for a zesty finish. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this creamy spinach-stuffed salmon with a light side salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette or alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. For a more comforting option, buttery mashed potatoes or quinoa make wonderful accompaniments, soaking up the delicious sauce.
How to store
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven, covered with foil, to maintain moisture. If you’d like to freeze the stuffed salmon, ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last in the freezer for about 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Pro chef tips
To elevate this dish even further, consider adding some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the stuffing mix for added flavor. Also, ensure not to overcook the salmon for the best texture—aim for that perfect flaky consistency.
Creative twists
Do you want to mix things up? Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes to your spinach stuffing for an Italian flair. For a spicy kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes or switch to a spicier cheese like pepper jack.
FAQs
What’s the prep time for this creamy spinach-stuffed salmon?
The preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20-25 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes before you’re enjoying this tasty dish!
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon properly in the fridge before cooking.
How should I handle leftovers safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety. Reheat only what you plan to eat to avoid multiple heating and cooling cycles, which can promote bacterial growth.
