Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Olives
There’s something about a beautifully stuffed salmon fillet that makes an ordinary dinner feel like a special occasion. This Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Olives is one of those recipes that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. Filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta, olives, garlic, and herbs, every bite is rich, fresh, and full of Mediterranean flavor.
I first tried a version of this recipe after a friend served stuffed salmon during a weekend dinner. I loved how the creamy filling complemented the tender fish, so I came home and created my own Mediterranean-inspired version. It has been a favorite in our home ever since.
Last weekend, I made it for a family dinner, and the aroma of garlic, lemon, and herbs filled the kitchen while the salmon baked. When I placed the finished dish on the table, everyone admired the colorful spinach and feta filling before taking their first bite.
My husband loved the juicy salmon paired with the salty olives, my parents commented on how light yet satisfying it was, and even my kids enjoyed the creamy filling tucked inside the fish. We served it with roasted vegetables and a simple salad, and there wasn’t a single bite left by the end of the meal.
Now, this Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon is one of my favorite recipes whenever I want a healthy dinner that feels elegant without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or any time you’re craving fresh Mediterranean flavors.
If you’re looking for a nutritious, protein-packed seafood recipe that’s both simple and impressive, this stuffed salmon is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in about 35 minutes
Rich in protein and heart-healthy omega-3s
Easy enough for weeknights
Elegant enough for entertaining
Naturally low in carbohydrates
Full of fresh Mediterranean flavors
One-pan friendly
What Is Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon?
This recipe features salmon fillets with a pocket cut into the side and filled with a flavorful mixture of sautéed spinach, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, garlic, and herbs. The salmon is then baked until flaky and tender, creating a healthy, restaurant-quality meal.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Filling
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup sliced Kalamata olives
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional Garnishes
Fresh parsley
Fresh dill
Lemon slices
Extra crumbled feta
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Baking dish
Skillet
Sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, then add the spinach and cook until wilted.
Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Stir in:
Feta cheese
Kalamata olives
Parsley
Dill
Lemon zest
Mix well.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet without slicing all the way through.
Season both the outside and inside of each fillet with paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Stuff each pocket generously with the spinach mixture.
Step 4: Bake
Arrange the stuffed salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Serve immediately.
Expert Tips
Don’t Overcook the Salmon
Remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily to keep it moist.
Use Fresh Spinach
Fresh spinach gives the filling the best texture and flavor.
Cut a Deep Pocket
A deeper pocket holds more filling without causing the fillet to fall apart.
Let the Filling Cool Slightly
This makes stuffing the salmon easier and helps keep the cheese from melting too quickly.
Delicious Variations
Sun-Dried Tomato Version
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a sweet, tangy flavor.
Creamy Filling
Mix a tablespoon or two of softened cream cheese into the spinach mixture for extra richness.
Herb Lover’s Salmon
Add fresh basil or oregano for an even brighter Mediterranean flavor.
Nutty Crunch
Sprinkle chopped toasted pine nuts over the salmon just before serving.
What to Serve with Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon
This salmon pairs beautifully with:
Roasted Mediterranean vegetables
Lemon herb quinoa
Brown rice
Greek salad
Garlic green beans
Couscous
Steamed asparagus
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm gently in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the salmon moist.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving provides:
High-quality protein
Heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids
Calcium from feta cheese
Vitamins A and C from spinach
Healthy fats from olive oil
Nutrition values will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before preparing the recipe.
What other cheeses work well?
Goat cheese or ricotta can be used, though feta provides the classic Mediterranean flavor.
Can I grill the stuffed salmon?
Yes, but use a grill-safe pan or foil to help keep the filling in place during cooking.
Is this recipe low in carbs?
Yes. It’s naturally low in carbohydrates while being high in protein and healthy fats.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the stuffed salmon a few hours ahead, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving.
What olives are best?
Kalamata olives offer the most authentic Mediterranean flavor, but green olives can also be used.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Finely chopped artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers make excellent additions to the filling.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The flesh should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I prepare this for meal prep?
Yes. It reheats well and makes a delicious lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative, although the flavor and texture will change slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon with Spinach & Olives is proof that a healthy dinner can also feel elegant and indulgent. After making it for my family last weekend and seeing everyone reach for seconds, it quickly became one of our most requested seafood recipes.
With flaky salmon, a savory spinach and feta filling, briny olives, and fresh herbs, every bite delivers the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this beautiful stuffed salmon is a recipe you’ll be proud to serve again and again.
