If you’re searching for a stunning dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, you’ve got to try this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe. It combines tender salmon fillets with a vibrant, flavorful stuffing of tender spinach, smoky roasted red peppers, and bright preserved lemon, all coming together in a perfect harmony of colors and tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply elevating a weeknight dinner, this recipe will make your meal feel truly memorable and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five pieces of raw salmon fillets arranged from largest to smallest on a white plate with blue stripes, placed on a wooden table. To the left, there is a large white bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves. Above the spinach, there is a small white bowl with white creamy sauce and another small white bowl filled with chopped red roasted peppers. At the top left corner, a shallot and a garlic bulb with some loose cloves are visible on the table. Near the salmon, there is a small black bowl with red spice, a clear glass bowl with dark green capers, and a small beige bowl holding a single lemon. The surface is wooden with a warm tone, but replace this with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the right ingredients is crucial for this Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe. Each component brings something essential—freshness, creaminess, a touch of tanginess, or a bit of smoky depth—to build complexity in flavor and create a gorgeous, wholesome bite.

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the shallots and spinach beautifully.
Shallot: Provides a mild sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
Garlic cloves: Infuses a warm, aromatic kick that brightens the stuffing.
Baby spinach: Offers freshness and a tender texture that melds wonderfully with the salmon.
Fire-roasted red peppers: Adds smoky sweetness and a lovely pop of color to the filling.
Capers: Bring a briny tang that livens up the entire dish with a subtle punch.
Preserved lemon: Offers a unique citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the salmon.
Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess that ties the stuffing ingredients together without heaviness.
Aleppo pepper: For a gentle heat and a fruity, slightly tangy warmth.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the stuffing and the salmon itself.
Salmon filet: The star of the show—fatty, tender, and perfect for stuffing.
Lemon: Used both for zest and juice to brighten the finished dish spectacularly.

How to Make Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F and greasing a rimmed baking sheet lightly with olive oil. This simple step ensures the salmon won’t stick and gets a nice even roast, setting the stage for perfectly tender fish with a golden finish.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach Base

Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallot and cook until it’s tender and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and baby spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts. This creates the soft, flavorful foundation for your stuffing.

Step 3: Drain the Spinach Mixture

To keep the stuffing from turning watery, transfer the spinach mixture into a fine mesh strainer over a bowl or sink. Press gently with a spoon to drain any excess moisture. This step is key to achieving a stuffing that holds its texture and flavor inside the salmon.

Step 4: Combine the Filling Ingredients

Roughly chop the wilted spinach and move it to a medium bowl. Add diced fire-roasted red peppers, chopped capers, finely chopped preserved lemon, Greek yogurt, Aleppo pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything to combine well—this vibrant mixture is bursting with layered flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare Salmon Pockets

Pat each salmon filet dry with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket along the side of each filet without slicing all the way through. Season the outside and inside of the pockets generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper if you prefer a subtle heat. This seasoning will infuse the fish with flavor as it bakes.

Step 6: Stuff and Bake

Place the salmon filets skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets for that bright tang. Then generously spoon the prepared stuffing into each pocket. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. This step elevates simple salmon into a show-stopping, delicious main course.

Step 7: Serve Fresh and Bright

Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Offer extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing, which adds a zesty finish that beautifully balances the smoky, savory flavors of the stuffing and fish.

How to Serve Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe

A white speckled shallow bowl holds a mixed creamy dish with three main layers: dark green leafy bits, bright red pieces, and small light beige grains, all combined evenly with a white creamy sauce. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, slightly under the food. The bowl is set on a wooden surface with warm brown and orange tones. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes work best here. Sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill to add a fresh, herbal note. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a light scatter of toasted pine nuts also adds a lovely richness and crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair this salmon with crisp green salads, roasted baby potatoes, or even a creamy quinoa pilaf. The mild starches and fresh vegetables round out the meal perfectly without overpowering the delicate stuffing flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the salmon fillets on a bed of lemon-infused couscous or alongside grilled asparagus for an elegant plate. You can also plate individual portions with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables to make a vibrant, inviting presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining its flavor and texture if properly sealed.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked stuffed salmon by wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month to retain freshness, but avoid freezing the yogurt-based stuffing long term for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F) or in a covered skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the delicate layers and flavors of your Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use fresh red peppers instead of roasted ones?

Fresh red peppers can be used, but roasting adds a smoky depth and sweetness that really elevates the stuffing. If using fresh, consider quickly sautéing or grilling them first for better flavor.

What if I don’t have preserved lemon? Can I substitute it?

Preserved lemon has a unique tang and slight fermentation which is hard to replicate. You can use finely grated lemon zest and a touch of lemon juice as a simple substitute in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as complex.

Is Aleppo pepper spicy?

Aleppo pepper has a mild, fruity heat that’s more warming than fiery. If you prefer no heat, you can omit it or adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

Yes! The stuffing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just fill and bake the salmon when ready to cook for fresher fish and perfectly combined flavors.

What’s the best way to choose salmon for this recipe?

Look for a thick, fresh fillet with vibrant color and firm texture. Wild-caught salmon tends to have more flavor, but high-quality farmed salmon works well too. Make sure the fillets are about an inch thick for easy stuffing.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Roasted Red Peppers Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to make at home. It’s packed with fresh flavors, gorgeous color, and heart-healthy nutrients that make it a winner for any meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and impress your family or guests with a beautifully balanced, memorable salmon dinner!