Description of this recipe: This recipe transforms a simple salmon fillet into an elegant and flavorful dish. Tender salmon is stuffed with a vibrant mixture of spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and lemon, then sliced into beautiful pinwheels that are baked to perfection. It’s a healthy, impressive, and surprisingly easy meal to prepare for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why you will love this recipe: Forget boring weeknight dinners! These Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are a flavor explosion that will impress your family and guests alike. The flaky salmon, the creamy feta, the bright lemon – it’s a symphony of tastes and textures. Plus, they look absolutely stunning on the plate. They’re relatively quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and incredibly delicious, making them a winner on all fronts. This recipe offers a fantastic way to elevate your salmon game and introduce a vibrant and healthy dish into your culinary repertoire. You’ll appreciate how easily the flavors come together and how customizable the filling can be to suit your preferences.
Introduction:
Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, lauded for its rich omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and delightful flavor. While grilling or pan-frying are classic preparations, this recipe takes salmon to a new level of culinary artistry. We transform a humble fillet into visually appealing and incredibly delicious pinwheels. The combination of earthy spinach, tangy feta, pungent garlic, and zesty lemon creates a dynamic flavor profile that complements the richness of the salmon perfectly. This recipe is designed to be accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, providing clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure success. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply elevate your weeknight meal, these Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are sure to become a new favorite. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its adaptability. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. Prefer a different cheese? Goat cheese or ricotta would work beautifully. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients:
- 1 large salmon fillet (about 1½ lbs, skinless): Choose a fillet that is thick and even in thickness for easier rolling.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped): Baby spinach is a great option, but any type of spinach will work. Be sure to wash and thoroughly dry the spinach before chopping.
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Opt for a block of feta and crumble it yourself for a fresher flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil for sautéing the garlic and brushing the pinwheels.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened: This helps to bind the filling together and adds a creamy texture. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: The zest adds a bright and aromatic flavor to the filling. Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: The juice enhances the flavor and helps to tenderize the salmon.
- ½ teaspoon dried dill (or 1 teaspoon fresh dill): Dill complements the salmon and adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Season generously to enhance the flavors of the ingredients.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to hold the pinwheels): These are essential for keeping the pinwheels intact during baking.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Feta Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Let the oil shimmer slightly before adding the garlic. This will help to prevent the garlic from burning and ensure it infuses the oil with its flavor.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Watch closely to prevent the garlic from browning or burning, as this can make it bitter. The garlic should be fragrant and lightly golden.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Add the spinach in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Stir frequently to ensure the spinach cooks evenly. The spinach should wilt down significantly and become tender.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. This will prevent the cream cheese from melting when you add it to the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and dill. Use a fork or spatula to combine the ingredients until evenly mixed. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 2: Prep the Salmon Fillet
- Place the salmon fillet on a cutting board and carefully slice it horizontally to create a thin, flat piece. This is a crucial step, so take your time and use a sharp knife. Start at one end of the fillet and slice horizontally, keeping the knife parallel to the cutting board. If the fillet is very thick, you may need to slice it into two thinner pieces. If needed, gently pound it with a mallet for an even thickness. Place the salmon between two sheets of plastic wrap before pounding to prevent it from tearing. The goal is to create a flat surface to spread the filling.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning, as this will help to enhance the flavor of the salmon.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
- Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the salmon fillet. Ensure the filling is spread thinly and evenly, leaving a small border around the edges. This will prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
- Starting from one end, tightly roll the salmon into a log. Roll the salmon as tightly as possible to create a compact and even roll.
- Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the roll in place. Insert toothpicks or tie kitchen twine at about 1-inch intervals along the roll. This will help to keep the pinwheels from unraveling during baking.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the salmon roll into 1½-inch thick pinwheels. Use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to slice the pinwheels. Try to keep the slices even in thickness for consistent cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Pinwheels
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure the oven is fully preheated before placing the pinwheels inside for even baking.
- Place the salmon pinwheels in a greased baking dish. Lightly grease the baking dish to prevent the pinwheels from sticking. Arrange the pinwheels in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one.
- Brush them lightly with olive oil. Brushing with olive oil helps to keep the pinwheels moist and gives them a golden-brown color.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Check the pinwheels after 15 minutes. The salmon is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking the salmon, as it can become dry.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the toothpicks or twine before serving. Be sure to remove all toothpicks or twine before serving to avoid any accidents.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill or an extra squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. A sprinkle of fresh dill adds a final touch of flavor and visual appeal. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Medium
- Flavor Complexity: High
- Presentation: High
- Nutritional Value: High
Serving Suggestions:
These Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides.
- Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or green beans for a simple and healthy meal.
- Accompany with quinoa or couscous for a more substantial dish.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting and decadent option.
- Present the pinwheels on a bed of sautéed greens for an elegant presentation.
Tips:
- Use a sharp knife for slicing the salmon fillet and pinwheels to ensure clean cuts.
- Don’t overcook the salmon, as it can become dry and tough.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and herbs in the filling.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- For a richer flavor, add a dollop of pesto to the filling.
- To prevent the pinwheels from drying out, you can cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of the baking time.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 18 minutes Total Time: 38 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 300mg
Conclusion:
Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels offer a delightful and healthy way to enjoy salmon. The combination of flavors and the elegant presentation make this dish a standout choice for any occasion. With its relatively simple preparation and customizable ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress with these stunning and delicious salmon pinwheels! The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will fill your kitchen, creating a truly memorable culinary experience. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the filling and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect version.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
- Yes, you can absolutely use frozen spinach! Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess water before adding it to the filling. Frozen spinach tends to be more watery than fresh spinach, so removing the excess moisture is crucial for preventing the filling from becoming soggy.
- I don’t like feta cheese. What can I substitute?
- No problem! Feta can be easily substituted with other cheeses. Goat cheese is a great alternative, as it has a similar tangy flavor. Ricotta cheese is another option, which will give the filling a creamier texture. You could also use a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella and Parmesan, for a milder flavor.
- How can I prevent the salmon from drying out during baking?
- There are several ways to prevent the salmon from drying out. First, be sure not to overcook it. Check the salmon after 15 minutes and remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork. Brushing the pinwheels with olive oil before baking helps to keep them moist. You can also cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of the baking time to trap moisture.
- Can I prepare these pinwheels ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time. Assemble the pinwheels and place them in a baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the pinwheels from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking as directed.
- What other ingredients can I add to the filling?
- The possibilities are endless! You can add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor, chopped olives for a salty kick, or roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky flavor. Pine nuts or chopped walnuts can add a nice crunch to the filling. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, to customize the flavor profile to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.
