Spinach Feta Salmon Pinwheels

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are my favorite way to turn a simple fillet into something guaranteed to impress. The savory mix of spinach and tangy feta wrapped inside tender salmon comes out looking beautiful without hours of effort. This is a go-to recipe for weeknights that feel special or when guests show up hungry and you want to serve something memorable.

The first time I made these pinwheels for my family, they disappeared so fast I barely got a taste. Now we make them on birthdays and holidays because everyone always requests them.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet: large and skinless for easy rolling and tender results Ask for center-cut when possible for even thickness
• Fresh spinach: for vibrant color and a nutrient boost Look for crisp leaves with no yellow spots
• Feta cheese: crumbled for creamy tanginess Choose a block of feta for better flavor than pre-crumbled
• Garlic: fresh and minced to build a savory filling Use firm cloves without green shoots for best taste
• Olive oil: for sautéing and brushing adds richness Use extra virgin for the most flavor
• Cream cheese: softened to help bind the filling Adds moisture and a lush texture
• Lemon zest: brightens and lifts all the flavors Use an organic lemon for the best peel
• Lemon juice: a splash sharpens every bite Fresh-squeezed makes a difference
• Dill: dried or fresh adds a herby aroma and subtle earthiness Fresh is more delicate but dried works fine
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if you have them
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine: holds everything together so the pinwheels keep their shape

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the minced garlic for about one minute until it smells fragrant and sizzles gently This quick sauté unlocks the garlic’s sweetness and avoids any harsh raw notes Next stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt down for two to three minutes The spinach will shrink considerably so do not worry if it looks like a lot at first Once the spinach is soft and bright remove the skillet from the heat and let everything cool to just above room temperature Combining while hot can melt the cheeses unevenly

Mix the Filling:

Transfer the spinach and garlic mixture to a mixing bowl Add the crumbled feta cream cheese lemon zest lemon juice and dill Stir until the mixture is creamy and the cheese is evenly distributed The filling should hold together but still feel light If it looks dry add another spoonful of cream cheese

Prepare the Salmon:

Lay the salmon fillet flat on a cutting board Take a sharp knife and slice the fillet horizontally in half so you get a wide thinner piece If the salmon is uneven gently pound it with a mallet or rolling pin until it is a uniform thickness about half an inch Season all over with salt and pepper pressing it in so it sticks well

Assemble the Pinwheels:

Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the salmon making sure to cover all edges but leaving about half an inch bare at one end for a tidy seal Starting from the opposite end roll the salmon up tightly into a log Use toothpicks or twine every few inches to hold the shape You want a snug roll as this helps the spirals look neat

Slice and Bake:

Preheat the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Place the rolled salmon on a cutting board and slice it crosswise into pinwheels usually about one and a half inches thick Arrange the pieces cut side up in a greased baking dish Brush lightly with more olive oil to keep the fish moist during baking Slide the dish into the oven and bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when ready

Serve:

Remove the baking dish and let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes Remove the toothpicks or twine before plating For a fresh finish garnish with a little more dill or another squeeze of lemon juice These are best enjoyed warm

Save

Spinach is always my favorite part of this filling because it adds both color and a gentle earthy flavor My daughter loves helping spread the creamy cheese mixture and we always laugh about who makes the best spiral

Storage Tips

Leftover pinwheels keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying out the salmon These do not freeze well because the cream cheese may lose its texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh salmon frozen and fully thawed fillets work in a pinch Goat cheese is a delicious swap for feta if you prefer a milder bite Swap fresh dill for parsley or chives if needed and baby kale works instead of spinach though it needs an extra minute to wilt

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels pair perfectly with a crisp salad or simple roasted potatoes For a Mediterranean flair serve with a spoonful of tzatziki and lemon wedges I also love them over a bed of fluffy quinoa to soak up extra juices

Cultural Context

Spinach and feta is a classic Mediterranean pairing often found in Greek pastries like spanakopita Folding it inside fish brings together two culinary traditions and makes for a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated Perfect for anyone wanting to try new flavors without fuss

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thawed and well-drained frozen spinach works well as a filling. Be sure to squeeze out excess liquid for best texture.

→ How do I keep the pinwheels from unraveling while baking?

Secure the rolled salmon log with toothpicks or kitchen twine before slicing and baking. Remove these before serving for easy presentation.

→ What is the best way to slice the salmon roll?

Use a sharp knife to cut even, gentle motions through the roll, creating 1½-inch thick pieces for uniform cooking and a neat appearance.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

→ Can I make the filling or assemble in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare the spinach-feta filling and roll up the salmon earlier in the day, then slice and bake just before serving.

→ What side dishes work well with these pinwheels?

Light salads, roasted vegetables, or a citrusy grain like quinoa make excellent accompaniments to highlight the dish’s flavors.