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Feta Spinach Salmon Roast: A Mediterranean Delight

There’s a particular salmon dish my grandmother used to make that always reminds me of summer. Not because it was particularly summery, but because she served it every year at our family reunion picnic. While this Feta Spinach Salmon Roast isn’t exactly her recipe, it evokes the same sense of comfort and shared joy, the flavors of the Mediterranean somehow transporting me back to those sun-drenched afternoons filled with laughter and the aroma of good food. This recipe is a tribute to those cherished memories, a delicious way to bring a little bit of that warmth and connection to your own table.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Dietary Type: Low Carb

Ingredients

3 ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup crumbled feta
2 scallions, thinly sliced, including green parts
1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 lb salmon fillet, sliced to make 2 filets
Olive oil

Equipment Needed

Bowl
Fork
Spatula
Shallow Baking Pan
Sharp, serrated knife
Toothpick

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even cooking.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta. Using a fork, mash and stir the cheeses together until they are thoroughly blended into a smooth and creamy mixture. This step is important for creating a cohesive and delicious filling.
Add the thinly sliced scallions (including the green parts) and the chopped fresh spinach to the cheese mixture. Combine all the ingredients well, ensuring that the scallions and spinach are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese and feta base. The scallions will add a subtle oniony bite, while the spinach provides a lovely earthy flavor and vibrant color.
Take one of the salmon fillets and spread the cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the top. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the fillet with the filling, creating a generous layer. The filling will be approximately 3/4 inch thick, providing a rich and flavorful complement to the salmon.
Carefully place the second salmon fillet on top of the filling, creating a “sandwich” with the feta spinach mixture nestled in between. This will encase the filling and help keep it moist during baking.
Brush both sides of the assembled salmon roast with olive oil. Using a spatula, carefully turn the salmon over to ensure that both sides are coated evenly. The olive oil will add moisture and help the salmon develop a beautiful golden-brown crust in the oven.
Place the salmon roast on a shallow baking pan. This will catch any juices that are released during baking and prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the accuracy of your oven.
After 20 minutes, test the salmon for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the thickest part of the fillet. If the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the salmon is cooked through. If it still looks raw in the center, continue baking for a few more minutes, checking for doneness every 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry and tough.
Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
To serve, use a sharp, serrated knife to carefully slice the salmon roast into portions. The serrated knife will help you cut through the flaky salmon and creamy filling without tearing or crumbling.
Enjoy your delicious Feta Spinach Salmon Roast!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Soften the cream cheese properly: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing it with the feta. This will create a smoother, more homogenous filling that’s easier to spread. A quick way to soften it is to microwave it for 15-20 seconds, but watch it carefully to prevent melting.
Don’t overbake the salmon: Salmon can become dry if overcooked. Keep a close eye on it and use the toothpick test to ensure it’s cooked through but still moist and tender.
Add lemon zest: A little lemon zest in the feta and spinach mixture will brighten the flavors and complement the richness of the salmon.
Use skin-on salmon (optional): If you prefer, you can use salmon fillets with the skin on. Baking the salmon skin-side down can help keep the fish moist.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a subtle kick.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Feta Spinach Salmon Roast is delicious served immediately while warm. Consider plating it atop a bed of quinoa or couscous, or alongside roasted asparagus or a vibrant green salad. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or parsley for an elegant presentation.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a low oven (around 275°F/135°C) or in a microwave at 50% power to prevent drying out. Reheating is best for preserving the salmon’s moisture, and the flavors meld together even more overnight. It’s not recommended to freeze the leftovers, as the texture of the cream cheese and spinach filling may change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	567.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	312 g	55%
Total Fat	34.7 g	53%
Saturated Fat	19 g	95%
Cholesterol	215.1 mg	71%
Sodium	914.3 mg	38%
Total Carbohydrate	4.8 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.6 g	2%
Sugars	2.8 g	11%
Protein	57 g	114%

Variations & Substitutions

Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a dairy-free feta alternative. Ensure the feta alternative melts well for best results.
Herbs: Experiment with different herbs in the filling. Dill, chives, or parsley would all be delicious additions or substitutions for the scallions.
Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the filling. Sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts would be flavorful additions.
Cheese: Try different types of cheese. Goat cheese or ricotta cheese would be delicious alternatives to feta.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess water before adding it to the filling.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the salmon roast ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. However, it’s best to bake it fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Q: My salmon is quite thick, will 20 minutes be enough?
A: The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Check for doneness using a toothpick and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I grill this instead of baking it?
A: While baking is recommended, you could grill it on indirect heat. Make sure the grill is well-oiled to prevent sticking and cook until the salmon is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: This salmon roast pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving is also a great addition.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find this Feta Spinach Salmon Roast as enjoyable to prepare and devour as I do. It’s a dish that’s elegant enough for a special occasion yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and substitutions to make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and let me know what you think! Bon appétit!

Feta Spinach Salmon Roast Recipe