Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels – Easy Dinner

A Flavorful Feast: Elevating Dinner with Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels

Are you searching for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to execute? In today’s fast-paced world, finding recipes that are both healthy and delicious can feel like a culinary quest. Enter the Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels – a delightful and elegant dish that promises a burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe isn’t just about saving time; it’s about creating a memorable meal that’s as nourishing as it is impressive. The tender, flaky salmon wrapped around a savory, creamy filling of spinach and feta cheese transforms a simple protein into an artistic masterpiece on your plate. Imagine the vibrant green of the spinach peeking through the golden-brown salmon, a true feast for the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, these pinwheels are a testament to how easy and rewarding it can be to prepare a truly special dinner. Let’s dive into this irresistible salmon recipe that will quickly become your go-to for a delicious, elegant, and protein-packed meal!

Gather Your Culinary Treasures: Ingredients for Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels

The magic of these pinwheels lies in the harmonious blend of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this culinary dream to life:

The Star Player: Salmon Fillets

• 2 lbs Salmon Fillets: Aim for skinless, boneless fillets. Look for fillets that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking and easier rolling. The rich, omega-3-packed flesh of salmon provides a luxurious base for our pinwheels, offering a tender and flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
  Substitution: If salmon isn’t your preference, you can try a firm white fish like cod or halibut, though the texture will be different.

The Verdant Heart: Fresh Spinach

• 10 oz Fresh Spinach: A generous amount of fresh, vibrant spinach. When wilted, it provides a beautiful color and earthy flavor that complements the richness of the salmon and the tang of the feta. Expect a surprisingly large volume of fresh spinach to shrink down significantly.
  Substitution: Frozen spinach can be used, but ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry to avoid a watery filling. Kale can also be a healthy alternative, though it has a stronger, slightly more bitter flavor.

The Tangy Treasure: Feta Cheese

• 4 oz Feta Cheese: Crumbled. The salty, tangy, and creamy nature of feta cheese is crucial for binding the filling and adding a delightful counterpoint to the savory salmon and mild spinach. Choose a good quality block and crumble it yourself for the best texture and flavor.
  Substitution: Goat cheese provides a similar tanginess and creamy texture. If you prefer a milder cheese, ricotta salata can be used, though it will be less crumbly.

Aromatic Enhancers

• 2 cloves Garlic: Finely minced. Garlic adds a pungent warmth that elevates the entire flavor profile.
  Substitution: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch (about 1/2 teaspoon), but fresh minced garlic offers a superior aroma and taste.
• 1/4 cup Fresh Dill: Finely chopped. Dill brings a bright, herbaceous note that pairs exceptionally well with salmon and feta.
  Substitution: Parsley or chives can offer a different, but still pleasant, herbaceousness.
• 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Zest: The bright, zesty essence of lemon cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing citrusy lift.
  Substitution: A tablespoon of fresh lemon juice can be used, but zest contains more of the aromatic oils.

Seasoning and Binders

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For sautéing the garlic and wilting the spinach.
  Substitution: Avocado oil or melted butter.
• Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper: To taste. Remember feta is salty, so season cautiously.
• 1 large Egg: Lightly beaten. This acts as a binder, helping to hold the filling together and ensuring the pinwheels maintain their shape during cooking.
  Substitution: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) can be used for a vegan alternative if you adapt the rest of the recipe.

Timing is Everything: Your Culinary Timeline

Compared to other stuffed salmon recipes, which can often involve more complex sauces or longer marinating times, these Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are remarkably efficient. The total time of around 45-50 minutes makes it a perfect candidate for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a convenient dish for weekend entertaining.

Crafting Culinary Art: Step-by-Step Salmon Pinwheel Perfection

Let’s transform these beautiful ingredients into stunning salmon pinwheels!

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon Canvas

Begin by preparing your salmon. If your fillets have any remaining skin or bones, carefully remove them. Place the salmon fillets on a clean, dry surface. For easier rolling, you’ll want to create a relatively even surface. If your fillets are very thick on one end and thin on the other, you can gently pound the thicker end with a mallet or rolling pin (covered in plastic wrap) to achieve a more uniform thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. You can also butterfly the thicker parts to even them out. Once prepped, lay them out, ready for their delicious filling.

Step 2: Wringing Out Flavor – The Spinach Prep

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the fresh spinach in batches, allowing each batch to wilt down before adding more. Once all the spinach is wilted, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the wilted spinach to a fine-mesh sieve or a clean kitchen towel. It’s crucial to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. Excess water will make your filling loose and can lead to soggy pinwheels. Let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Uniting the Filling Flavors

In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed-dry spinach, crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, and lemon zest. Add the lightly beaten egg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be mindful of the salt, as feta is already quite savory. Taste a tiny bit of the mixture (if you’re comfortable doing so, or trust your seasoning instincts) and adjust if needed.

Step 4: Rolling Out the Elegance – Assembling the Pinwheels

Lay out your prepared salmon fillets on a large piece of plastic wrap, slightly overlapping them if necessary to create a large rectangular ‘sheet’ of salmon. Ensure there are no large gaps. Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the salmon, leaving about a 1/2-inch border along the edges. Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll up the salmon, using the plastic wrap to help guide and shape the roll. Roll it as snugly as possible to create a compact log.

Step 5: The Crucial Chill and Slice

Once rolled, twist the ends of the plastic wrap to further tighten the log. Refrigerate the salmon roll for at least 20-30 minutes. This chilling step is vital as it firms up the salmon, making it much easier to slice into neat pinwheels without them falling apart. After chilling, unwrap the salmon log and use a sharp knife to slice it into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get about 8-10 pinwheels, depending on the size of your salmon.

Step 6: The Grand Finale – Cooking to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You can cook these pinwheels in a few ways:
Baking: Arrange the pinwheels in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the edges are nicely golden.
Pan-Searing & Baking: For an extra crispy exterior, you can sear the pinwheels in a hot, oven-safe skillet with a little oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven to finish cooking.
Gently flip the pinwheels halfway through baking if you are not searing them first, for even browning.

Nutritional Snapshot: What You’re Indulging In

While exact nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and precise measurements, a typical serving (about 2 pinwheels) of these Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels offers:

• Calories: Approximately 300-400 kcal
• Protein: High (approx. 30-40g)
• Healthy Fats: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium from spinach and feta.

This makes them a fantastic choice for a balanced, nutrient-dense meal.

Healthier Twists for Lighter Indulgence

Want to make these even lighter without sacrificing flavor? Consider these swaps:

• Reduced-Fat Feta: Opt for a reduced-fat variety of feta cheese.
• Lighter Greens: Use a mix of spinach and a lighter herb like parsley or even watercress for the filling.
• Skip the Egg Yolk: Use only the egg white as a binder if you’re concerned about cholesterol or fat.
• Leaner Salmon: While not a significant change for salmon, if using other fish, choose leaner options.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Your Salmon Pinwheels

These elegant pinwheels are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic complement.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers roasted until tender.
• Quinoa or Couscous: For a complete and satisfying meal.
• Lemon-Dill Sauce: A simple drizzle of a light lemon-dill sauce can enhance the flavors.

Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Steer Clear Of

To ensure your Salmon Pinwheels turn out perfectly:

• Over-processing the spinach: Squeeze, don’t pulverize. You want discernible bits of spinach in the filling.
• Not chilling the salmon roll: This is crucial for clean slicing. Be patient!
• Rolling too loosely: A tight roll ensures the pinwheels hold their shape and cook evenly. Use the plastic wrap to your advantage.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Allow space between pinwheels for even cooking and browning.

Savoring the Leftovers: Smart Storing Solutions

Store any leftover cooked Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or a skillet to maintain their texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enjoy Your Elegant and Easy Salmon Creation!

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are a testament to the fact that impressive meals don’t have to be complicated. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile dish that’s suitable for a quick weeknight dinner or a more festive occasion. The combination of tender salmon, savory spinach, and tangy feta, all rolled into beautiful pinwheels, is sure to delight your taste buds and wow your guests. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on this simple yet rewarding culinary journey. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create something truly special!

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