Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels are a delicious and elegant dish that features tender salmon fillets rolled with a flavorful stuffing. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a fancy dinner at home. The combination of creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and vegetables creates a delightful filling that pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of the salmon. These pinwheels are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor!

Ingredients List

For the Salmon Pinwheels:

• 2 large salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (or roasted red peppers)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for drizzling

For Garnish (Optional):

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh herbs (dill or parsley)

Timing

Preparing Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels takes about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Flatten the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a cutting board. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently flatten the fillets to about 1/2 inch thick, making them easier to roll.
3. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the top of each salmon fillet.

Step 3: Roll the Salmon

1. Roll Carefully: Starting from one end, carefully roll each salmon fillet tightly into a log shape. Secure with toothpicks if needed to hold the shape.
2. Place in Baking Dish: Place the rolled salmon pinwheels seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Bake the Pinwheels

1. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the pinwheels and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove Toothpicks: If you used toothpicks, carefully remove them before serving.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve warm with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels (per serving, assuming 2 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	30g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus into the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variations: Substitute cream cheese with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels pair well with:

• A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Quinoa or rice for a hearty side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Salmon: Keep an eye on the salmon while baking to avoid dryness; it should be just cooked through.
2. Not Flattening the Salmon: Flattening the fillets helps them roll more easily and evenly.
3. Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the salmon before baking for enhanced flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

In just about 30 minutes, you can create Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels, a delicious and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a fancy dinner at home. With a creamy filling and tender salmon, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit!

FAQs

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze the pinwheels?

It’s best to freeze the unbaked pinwheels. Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute with fresh tomatoes or omit them altogether. Roasted red peppers also work well for a different flavor.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! This recipe can also be made with other fish like tilapia or trout, but adjust the cooking time as needed.