Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dinner that feels both elegant and approachable, Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels will be a new favorite in your repertoire. This dish brings together the richness of salmon, the creaminess of feta cheese, and the freshness of spinach, all rolled up into beautiful spirals that bake to tender, flavorful perfection. Whether you’re entertaining friends or elevating a weeknight meal, Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels offer a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors that are as impressive to serve as they are delicious to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels couldn’t be easier. Each item adds its own distinct character, from the salmon’s buttery texture to the tangy zip of feta and the brightness of lemon zest, ensuring every bite is satisfying and vibrant.

• Salmon fillet (about 1½ lbs, skinless): Choose a large, fresh, and even fillet for easy rolling and beautiful pinwheel presentation.
• Fresh spinach (2 cups, chopped): The spinach brings color and a tender bite, wilting down perfectly for the filling.
• Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Feta adds a salty, tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the salmon.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives the filling an aromatic lift.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Use this for sautéing your garlic and spinach, infusing them with Mediterranean flavor.
• Cream cheese (2 tablespoons, softened): This makes the filling creamy and helps it hold together inside the pinwheels.
• Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): A little zest goes a long way in brightening the flavors.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Lemon juice adds acidity, balancing richness and making the flavors pop.
• Dill (½ teaspoon dried or 1 teaspoon fresh): Dill echoes the classic pairing with salmon and layers in a fresh herbal note.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Season the salmon and the filling to draw out their best flavors.
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Essential for keeping those gorgeous pinwheels neatly rolled during baking.

How to Make Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Feta Filling

Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic just until it’s fragrant, about a minute, then add in the chopped fresh spinach. Stir and cook for a couple of minutes, just until the spinach wilts. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in the feta cheese, cream cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and dill. Stir until the mixture is creamy and evenly blended—this is the soul-warming filling that makes Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels irresistible.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon Fillet

Lay the salmon fillet on a cutting board and carefully slice it horizontally, opening it like a book so it’s thin and even. If necessary, gently use a mallet to ensure uniform thickness so it rolls easily. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the surface; this simple seasoning helps the natural salmon flavor shine alongside the bold filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread your creamy spinach and feta mixture evenly over the surface of the salmon fillet, making sure to cover to the edges. Starting at one end, roll the salmon tightly into a log, using gentle but firm pressure to keep everything snug. Secure your roll at intervals with toothpicks or tie kitchen twine around it, then slice into thick, beautiful pinwheels. This is where Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels start to look truly spectacular!

Step 4: Bake the Pinwheels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pinwheels in a lightly oiled baking dish. Brush the tops lightly with a little more olive oil to help them brown. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily when tested with a fork. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen—it’s nearly impossible to wait!

Step 5: Serve

Remove the toothpicks or twine carefully, then transfer your Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels to a serving platter. Garnish with extra dill or a squeeze of bright lemon juice if desired, and get ready for the oohs and aahs at the table!

How to Serve Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels

Garnishes

Nothing elevates Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels like a flourish of extra garnishes. Try sprinkling on some freshly chopped dill, a light dusting of lemon zest, or a final squeeze of lemon juice for color and a fresh pop of flavor. Even a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving can make the glossy pinwheels shine.

Side Dishes

These pinwheels partner beautifully with a simple salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, roasted baby potatoes, or a side of herbed rice. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes create a lovely contrast to the tangy feta and verdant spinach inside each bite. Don’t forget seasonal steamed veggies for extra color and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

Set your Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels atop a bed of arugula or couscous to make the colors pop. For a special touch, try arranging them in a shingled pattern on a large platter with lemon slices and edible flowers. You could even skewer small pinwheels for an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure they’ve cooled fully before storing, and place a piece of parchment between layers to keep them from sticking together.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these in advance, the assembled but unbaked pinwheels freeze beautifully. Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook them from frozen.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pinwheels on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through. This helps revive the texture without overcooking the delicate salmon. Microwaving is possible for a quick lunch, though the oven preserves the best flavor and presentation.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before sautéing. Frozen spinach works great in Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels and can save a bit of prep time.

What if I don’t have feta cheese?

You can substitute with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor and texture. Both will still offer creaminess, though feta’s saltiness is iconic in this dish.

How can I prevent the salmon from falling apart?

Rolling the fillet tightly and securing the pinwheels with toothpicks or twine helps keep everything intact as it bakes. A sharp knife for slicing also ensures even, clean pinwheels.

Can I make Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pinwheels a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. They also freeze very well, as noted above, making them ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

What wine pairs well with these salmon pinwheels?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a sparkling wine pairs beautifully with Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels, balancing their richness and complementing the tangy filling.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall in love with the blend of flavors, colors, and textures packed into every bite of Spinach & Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a special home-cooked dinner, these pinwheels promise a memorable meal that’s both comforting and elevated. Give them a try and discover just how delightful and easy homemade elegance can be!

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