Name: Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 center-cut salmon fillets; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1⁄3 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped; 1⁄2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1⁄4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1⁄2 teaspoon salt; 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper

Mediterranean stuffed salmon is the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining on the shores of Santorini. It combines the bold, sunny flavors of the Mediterranean—think olives, sundried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and creamy feta—all tucked neatly inside a perfectly baked salmon fillet. The result is a colorful, flavor-packed main course that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.

The creamy filling melts into the flaky salmon as it bakes, creating a juicy, tender bite every time. It’s a dish that feels decadent but still leans toward the healthy side. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is as rewarding as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon

This dish is a showstopper that takes less than 30 minutes to make. It delivers rich, savory flavors with ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. The stuffing is a flavorful blend of textures, from creamy to briny to herbaceous, all perfectly complementing the buttery salmon. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and loaded with omega-3s. Plus, it bakes in one pan, meaning fewer dishes to wash.

What Kind of Salmon Should I Use?

For this recipe, center-cut salmon fillets are your best bet. Look for pieces that are thick and uniform in shape so they’re easy to slice open and stuff. Skin-on fillets can help hold everything together, but skinless works just as well if that’s what you have. Fresh is always ideal, but if you’re using frozen, just make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before stuffing.

Ingredients for the Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon Recipe

The magic of this Mediterranean stuffed salmon recipe lies in the bright and bold combination of ingredients. You’ll only need a handful of items, but each one plays a key role in flavor and texture. Let’s take a look at what goes into this delicious dish:

Salmon fillets: Thick center-cut pieces work best for stuffing and baking evenly.
Fresh spinach: Adds earthiness and color to the stuffing while helping bulk it up.
Sundried tomatoes: Bring in a tangy-sweet richness that cuts through the creamy cheese.
Feta cheese: Offers a salty, briny kick and creamy texture that melts beautifully.
Kalamata olives: Infuse the filling with bold Mediterranean flavor and depth.
Garlic: Freshly minced for a savory boost.
Lemon zest: Adds brightness and enhances all the other flavors.
Olive oil: Used to sauté and for brushing the salmon before baking.
Salt and pepper: Just enough to season everything without overpowering the other ingredients.

How To Make the Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by sautéing garlic and fresh spinach in olive oil until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and stir in chopped sundried tomatoes, crumbled feta, sliced Kalamata olives, and lemon zest. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Slice and Stuff the Salmon

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet. Be sure not to slice all the way through. Spoon the filling into each pocket, packing it generously.

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

Place the stuffed fillets on a lined baking sheet, brush with a little olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the filling is heated through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the fillets rest for a minute or two. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One of the biggest mistakes with stuffed salmon is overcooking. Salmon is delicate, and going just a few minutes over can dry it out. Keep an eye on your oven, and don’t be afraid to check early.

Another misstep? Not drying the salmon properly. Excess moisture can prevent the stuffing from staying inside the fillet and may even cause it to steam instead of bake. Be sure to pat your fillets dry before slicing and stuffing.

Finally, resist the temptation to overload the filling. It might look beautiful going in, but too much stuffing will leak out during baking and make a mess.

Serving and Storing This Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon

This Mediterranean stuffed salmon feeds four people generously. Serve it hot out of the oven with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to preserve the moisture and prevent the cheese from breaking.

If you’re making this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the stuffing and slice the salmon earlier in the day. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to bake to avoid sogginess.

What to Serve With Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon?

Herbed Couscous

Light and fluffy with a subtle herbal note, couscous is a natural match.

Greek Salad

Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a splash of red wine vinegar add freshness.

Roasted Asparagus

Adds a tender-crisp bite and roasty flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and comforting with a mild garlic note that doesn’t overpower.

Lemon Rice Pilaf

Bright and citrusy with fluffy rice to soak up the juices from the salmon.

Crusty Bread

Great for scooping up any of the leftover stuffing that spills onto your plate.

Grilled Zucchini

A healthy, charred veggie option that pairs well with the Mediterranean profile.

Tzatziki Sauce

A dollop on the side adds cool creaminess and tangy contrast.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you love this Mediterranean stuffed salmon, you’re in for a treat with these other seafood favorites:

Try this creamy, decadent Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque for a cozy night in.
Dive into the crispy perfection of Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites with a spicy kick.
Savor the classic taste of the coast with Healthy Lemon Butter Baked Cod for a lighter weeknight dinner.
Indulge in layers of flavor with this unique Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna.
Keep it fresh with a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa that’s perfect for sunny days.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap out the feta? Add artichokes? Maybe tried a dairy-free version?

I always love seeing your twists and hearing your tips. Your questions are welcome too—let’s keep the creativity flowing in the kitchen.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Mediterranean stuffed salmon brings the best of flavor, color, and nutrition to your plate in under 30 minutes. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for weeknight dinners. From the creamy stuffing to the juicy baked fish, every bite is a little escape to the Mediterranean.