How to Make Irresistible Salmon Pinwheels Stuffed with Spinach and Feta

Salmon pinwheels stuffed with spinach and feta cheese are a delicious and elegant appetizer or main dish that look impressive but are surprisingly easy to make. The combination of flaky salmon, creamy feta, and fresh spinach makes these baked pinwheels a real crowd-pleaser. This step-by-step guide will teach you how to prepare perfect salmon pinwheels every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for spinach and feta stuffed salmon pinwheels include

• 4 skinless salmon fillets, about 6 oz each
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

That covers the basics! Now let’s go over the easy process of putting them together.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by sautéing the spinach. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until just wilted. Transfer to a plate and place in the fridge for 10 minutes to cool completely.

In a bowl, mix together the cooled spinach, crumbled feta, cream cheese, garlic powder, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Stir well until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your filling!

Step 2: Butterfly the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry and lay them flat. Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the side of each fillet, stopping about 1/2 inch before the other edge. Open them up like a book. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to about 1/4 inch thickness.

Step 3: Spread on the Filling

Divide the spinach and feta filling evenly among the flattened salmon fillets, spreading it in an even layer and leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.

Step 4: Roll Up the Pinwheels

Starting at one end of each fillet, roll it up tightly to encase the filling. Use toothpicks to hold the rolls together if needed.

Step 5: Bake the Pinwheels

Place the stuffed salmon pinwheels seam side down on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For color, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Allow the baked salmon pinwheels to rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh dill. Slice the pinwheels and serve while hot. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

Follow these tips for flawless salmon pinwheels every time:

• Chill the filling first to make rolling easier.
• Take your time butterflying the fillets evenly.
• Spread the filling all the way to the edges.
• Roll up tightly, using plastic wrap to help.
• Bake seam side down to prevent leaks.
• Use fresh, high-quality salmon for best flavor.

Simple Flavor Variations

While the classic spinach and feta filling is delicious, you can also customize your salmon pinwheels with different fillings:

• Substitute kale, arugula, or chard for the spinach.
• Use goat cheese, ricotta, or cream cheese instead of feta.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, roasted peppers, or caramelized onions.
• Stir in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, basil, or cilantro.
• Swap in walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Season with smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or cajun spices.

The options are endless for these easy yet impressive stuffed salmon pinwheels!

Cooking the Pinwheels Perfectly

Achieving the ideal doneness for your salmon pinwheels does take some finesse. Here are helpful guidelines:

• Always cook to an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer.
• Thicker fillets will take longer than thinner ones.
• Baking gives the best texture, but grilling or pan-searing work too.
• If pan-searing, use medium-high heat and flip gently with a spatula.
• Pull off heat just before fully cooked to account for carryover cooking.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Checking for flakiness with a fork is also a good way to test doneness. Undercooked pinwheels won’t hold together well, while overcooked salmon gets dry.

Serving Suggestions

Salmon pinwheels make a lovely presentation. Here are some easy serving ideas:

• A fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or pilaf make great sides.
• Drizzle with lemon-dill aioli or hollandaise sauce.
• For dinner parties, serve one pinwheel per plate garnished with herbs.
• For appetizers, slice each pinwheel into rounds and arrange on a platter.
• Pair with champagne, white wine, or a light, crisp beer.

However you choose to serve them, these elegant salmon pinwheels are sure to impress your family or guests! With a little practice, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of perfect spinach and feta stuffed salmon pinwheels anytime.