Tuscan Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Fillets
Tender pan-seared salmon fillets stuffed with a rich filling of cream cheese, sautéed garlic spinach, tangy feta, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
In a nutshell: This authentic mediterranean tuscan spinach and feta stuffed salmon fillets comes together in just 27 mins using simple whole ingredients. The chef's secret is to Use thick center-cut salmon fillets so they hold the pocket without tearing through. Perfect for home cooks seeking a dependable, restaurant-quality finish with minimal effort.
A restaurant-worthy gourmet salmon dinner ready in under 30 minutes! Thick fresh center-cut salmon fillets are sliced with a tender pocket, generously filled with a creamy Mediterranean mixture of cream cheese, feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, then seared golden in garlic butter.
Key Equipment
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- Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
- Sharp chef's knife
- Silicone spatula
- Fish spatula
Chef's Pro-Tips
- Pro-Tip: Use thick center-cut salmon fillets so they hold the pocket without tearing through.
- Pro-Tip: Thoroughly squeeze water from sautéed spinach to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
- Pro-Tip: A flexible fish spatula makes flipping stuffed fillets effortless without losing any stuffing.
Ingredients
4
servings
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4 fillets salmon fillets, 6 oz each, skinless center-cut
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4 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
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½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
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2 cups fresh baby spinach, sautéed and squeezed dry
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¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
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2 cloves garlic, finely minced
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¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1 tsp kosher salt, divided
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped for garnish
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Make Spinach-Feta Filling
In a small skillet, sauté baby spinach with 1 minced garlic clove and 1 tsp olive oil for 2 minutes until wilted. Transfer to paper towels and squeeze out excess moisture. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, crumbled feta, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan, wilted spinach, 1/4 tsp salt, and pepper until combined.
Cut Salmon Pockets
Pat salmon fillets dry. Using a sharp knife, slice a horizontal pocket into the thick side of each fillet, leaving edges intact on three sides. Season exterior of salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.
Stuff Fillets
Divide the spinach-feta mixture evenly and stuff into each salmon pocket, pressing gently to seal.
Pan-Sear Golden
Heat remaining olive oil and butter in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place stuffed salmon fillets in pan. Sear for 5 to 6 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Carefully flip and cook for 4 to 5 minutes more until salmon is just cooked through (internal temp 135-140°F / 58-60°C).
Butter Baste & Serve
Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pan butter and spoon the bubbling pan juices over the fillets. Garnish with chopped fresh dill and serve immediately.
Chef Clara's Kitchen Picks
Kitchen EssentialsAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Nordic Ware Naturals Half Sheet, 2-Pack
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View on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Yes! Arrange stuffed fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until flaky.
Yes, goat cheese (chèvre) provides a wonderfully creamy, earthy tartness that works delightfully.
Serve alongside roasted asparagus, garlic butter green beans, or steamed lemon herb rice.