Feta Stuffed Salmon Recipe

This Feta Stuffed Salmon is everything you crave in a weeknight dinner–incredibly flavorful, impossibly juicy, and ready in just about 30 minutes! Each bite of tender salmon reveals a creamy kale and feta filling that’s bold, bright, and absolutely irresistible, all wrapped in a golden, herby crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Restaurant-Worthy, Made Easy: Get that fancy, dinner-party “wow” right at home, without fuss or stress.
  • Flavor Explosion: Each bite combines juicy salmon, tangy feta, fresh dill, and lemon, all in a perfectly crispy crust.
  • Nutritious & Satisfying: Packed with leafy greens and healthy salmon, it’s a protein-rich meal that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
  • Perfect for Weeknights or Guests: Quick to prepare and elegant enough to impress even your toughest critics.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s magical about this recipe is how it turns simple, fresh ingredients into something you’ll absolutely crave. Every item is chosen for the way it helps balance flavor, add color, or create that dreamy stuffed texture inside the Feta Stuffed Salmon.

  • Salmon Fillets (3-4, 4-6oz each): Choose center-cut fillets for easy stuffing and juicy results—wild-caught if possible for the best flavor.
  • Bread Crumbs: These create a crisp, golden topping—panko works beautifully if you have it.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy depth and helps the crumb topping stick perfectly.
  • Paprika: Gives the crust that lovely warm color and subtle smokiness.
  • Garlic Powder: Enhances the salmon and filling with gentle garlicky warmth.
  • Dried Parsley: Adds a pop of green and herby goodness to the topping.
  • Salt & Pepper: To season every component and bring all the flavors to life.
  • Olive Oil: Ensures everything bakes up moist and luscious.
  • Lemon Juice: Just a squeeze brings everything together with brightness on top.
  • Chopped Kale or Spinach (2 cups): Sautéed greens add nutrients, color, and a lovely earthiness to your filling.
  • Feta Cheese (3 oz): The star of the show! Its crumbly, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with salmon.
  • Chopped Dill (2 tbsp): For fresh, herbal fragrance that lifts the whole dish.
  • Lemon Zest (1 tsp): Brightens the stuffing with citrusy aroma—don’t skip!
  • Additional Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper (for filling): Season the veggie-feta mix to taste.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the joys of Feta Stuffed Salmon is just how easy it is to make it your own! Whether you need to swap out an ingredient for what you have or want to play with new flavors, this dish is endlessly customizable.

  • Try Goat Cheese: Swap the feta for creamy goat cheese for a milder, tangier twist.
  • Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a Mediterranean flair, stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
  • Use Baby Spinach: If kale isn’t your favorite, tender spinach leaves work beautifully and cook even faster.
  • Make it Gluten Free: Substitute gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed rice crackers for classic crunch without the wheat.

How to Make Feta Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Greens

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready. Heat a small pan over medium with just a swish of olive oil, then add the chopped kale or spinach. Sauté for about five minutes, until the greens soften, shrink down, and turn a rich, vibrant color. This step mellows out the flavor and prevents the filling from being watery.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Feta Filling

Transfer your sautéed greens to a bowl. Crumble in the feta, add lemon zest, chopped dill, a sprinkle each of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mash and mix everything well—the feta will break into smaller, creamy bits, turning your greens into a luscious, slightly tangy filling.

Step 3: Cut and Stuff the Salmon

With a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet—be careful not to slice all the way through! Gently spoon in a generous amount of the feta and greens mixture, nestling it deep inside so every cut reveals a beautiful spiral of filling.

Step 4: Top and Coat the Fish

Arrange your stuffed salmon, skin side down, on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush the tops with a thin layer of Dijon mustard—this not only adds a pop of flavor, but gives the breadcrumb topping something to cling to. In a small bowl, toss the bread crumbs with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Press this mixture onto the mustard-brushed fish for that irresistible crunch.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Bake the Feta Stuffed Salmon in your hot oven for 10–12 minutes, just until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Right before serving, finish each fillet with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice for irresistible brightness. Get ready for the oohs and aahs—with hardly any effort, this dish is stunning!

Pro Tips for Making Feta Stuffed Salmon

  • Salmon Pocket Success: Use a slim, sharp knife and keep your supporting hand on top of the fillet to slice evenly, stopping just short of the opposite edge to create a perfect pocket.
  • Feta Texture Matters: Choose block feta and crumble it yourself for a creamier, less dry filling (pre-crumbled can be too chalky).
  • Breadcrumb Crispiness: Don’t skimp on the olive oil in your crumb mixture—a little extra ensures an even, golden crunch instead of dry patches.
  • Check for Doneness: Salmon is ready when it just flakes with a fork and the stuffing looks steamy and creamy—not when it looks shriveled or dry.

How to Serve Feta Stuffed Salmon

Feta Stuffed Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Shower your Feta Stuffed Salmon with extra chopped fresh dill, a scatter of crumbled feta, and a burst of lemon zest right before serving. A handful of microgreens or a few capers make it extra-pretty and add a fresh, briny contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish loves to be paired with roasted baby potatoes, lemony orzo, or a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette. Steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans bring more color and balance to your plate—let the flavors of your Feta Stuffed Salmon really shine!

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the salmon into thick medallions for individual portions—so each person gets that gorgeous spiral of feta and greens. Stack the fillets atop warm grains, or arrange on a large platter with citrus wedges and sprigs of dill for a brunch-worthy centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Feta Stuffed Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it a delicious meal prep option for lunch the next day.

Freezing

While salmon can be frozen, the creamy feta filling tends to lose its silky texture after thawing. If you do freeze, wrap the fillets tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to one month—just know the crumb topping won’t be as crunchy when reheated.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Feta Stuffed Salmon in a 325°F oven, loosely covered with foil, for 10-12 minutes—this keeps the fish moist and brings the filling back to life. Avoid using the microwave, which can make both fish and crumbs rubbery.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

    Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw and gently pat the salmon dry before stuffing and baking. Excess water can make the filling watery or the fillets hard to fill, so take your time with this step.

  2. Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

    Absolutely—try using goat cheese, ricotta mixed with parmesan, or even a vegan feta alternative. The key is to choose something creamy and tangy so it balances the rich salmon perfectly.

  3. Do I need to remove the skin from the salmon?

    No need! Bake your Feta Stuffed Salmon with the skin on; it helps hold the fillets together while baking and keeps them extra moist. You can easily peel it away after cooking if you prefer not to eat it.

  4. Can I grill the Feta Stuffed Salmon instead of baking?

    Yes, you can! Place the stuffed salmon in a grill-safe foil pack or on a well-oiled grill tray over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, keeping the lid closed. The crumb topping may not get quite as golden, but the smoky flavor is delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to shake up your salmon routine, this Feta Stuffed Salmon is the answer. It’s a dish that looks spectacular, tastes indulgent, and keeps things healthy and simple. Gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’re in for a treat that everyone at the table will remember!

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Feta Stuffed Salmon Recipe

Feta Stuffed Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 136 reviews
  • Author: Megane
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This delightful recipe for Feta Stuffed Salmon features tender salmon fillets filled with a flavorful mixture of feta cheese, kale, and herbs, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. A perfect dish for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Salmon Fillets:

  • 34 salmon fillets, 4-6 oz each
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dry parsley
  • Salt & pepper
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice, to top

Feta Kale Filling:

  • 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
  • 3 oz feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped dill
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F: Heat a small pan over medium heat with a little olive oil and saute the kale for about 5 minutes until soft.
  2. Prepare Feta Kale Filling: Transfer the kale to a bowl and combine with the feta cheese, lemon zest, dill, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt & pepper. Mix well to form a creamy filling using a fork to break up the feta clumps.
  3. Stuff the Salmon: Slice an opening into one side of your salmon fillets. Spoon the feta mixture into each opening. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a parchment-lined tray.
  4. Season and Bake: Brush the tops of the fish with dijon mustard. Coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt & pepper. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Finish and Serve: Top with fresh lemon juice before serving.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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