These Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are a tasty treat! Each tender salmon slice is filled with creamy feta cheese and fresh spinach, making it a perfect dish for impressing guests.
Rolling them up is fun, and they look fancy on the plate—like little gourmet gifts! I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon on top. It adds such a fresh touch! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh, skinless salmon fillet is the star here! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative, you can use trout or even chicken breast, although the texture won’t be quite the same.
Spinach: Fresh spinach provides great flavor and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, you can use frozen spinach—just thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a delicious saltiness. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, try using a dairy-free feta or a creamy tofu for a similar texture.
Cream Cheese: This helps bind the filling together. Full-fat cream cheese works best, but low-fat or vegan cream cheese are suitable substitutes if you’re watching calories. You could also use ricotta for a lighter option.
What’s the Best Way to Roll the Salmon Pinwheels Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling the salmon properly is key to making the pinwheels hold together. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Spread the filling evenly, but avoid overstuffing. Less is more!
- Start rolling from one end gently but firmly, keeping the filling inside. If it feels too loose, secure it with toothpicks.
- Place the seam side down in the baking dish to help hold it together during cooking.
Let them rest after baking to make slicing easier. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Make Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet (skinless)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ÂĽ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 35 minutes. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a delightful dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking dish with parchment paper to make clean-up easy later on.
2. Sautéing the Spinach:
In a skillet, add the olive oil and place it over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and slightly golden. Then, add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s wilted. After that, remove the skillet from the heat and let the spinach cool for a moment.
3. Mixing the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the wilted spinach, crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Preparing the Salmon:
Lay the salmon fillet on a clean surface with the skin side down. Gently spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the top of the salmon, making sure it covers the fish.
5. Rolling the Salmon:
Starting from one end, carefully roll the salmon all the way to the other end to create a pinwheel shape. If you need to, secure it with toothpicks to hold everything together.
6. Baking the Pinwheels:
Place the rolled salmon into the prepared baking dish, then pop it in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serving:
Once cooked, let the salmon rest for a few minutes before slicing it into pinwheels. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if you like, and serve warm. Enjoy your tasty stuffed salmon pinwheels!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before using. Thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Be sure to pat it dry before spreading the filling to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives. Both will provide a creamy texture and a different flavor profile. If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, try using crumbled blue cheese, just keep in mind it will change the taste of the dish slightly.
How to Store Leftover Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave them in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Filling?
Absolutely! You can customize the filling by adding other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, artichokes, or even sun-dried tomatoes. Just make sure to sautĂ© any additional veggies beforehand to ensure they’re cooked and won’t add extra moisture to the filling.
