A Healthy and Elegant Dinner Idea
This Salmon Wellington with Spinach & Puff Pastry is a light yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a spring or summer dinner. With flaky puff pastry wrapped around tender salmon and a creamy spinach filling, this recipe offers the perfect balance of richness, freshness, and crisp texture. Whether you’re preparing a romantic date night meal or an impressive dinner for guests, this dish is as elegant as it is easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Yet Indulgent – Packed with omega-3-rich salmon, fiber-filled spinach, and a light, creamy filling.
- Crispy & Flaky – The golden-brown puff pastry adds a satisfying crunch.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps for a gourmet-quality meal.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable with different herbs, cheeses, or sauces.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for a special dinner, spring gathering, or holiday meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 salmon fillets (skinless)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (or ricotta)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Spinach Mixture
- Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic and spinach until wilted.
- Remove from heat and mix in cream cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Let cool.
3. Assemble the Wellington
- Roll out the puff pastry and place a salmon fillet in the center.
- Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the salmon.
- Fold the puff pastry over the salmon, sealing the edges tightly.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Brush the top with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
5. Rest & Serve
- Let the Salmon Wellington rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with roasted broccolini, lemon wedges, or a fresh salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Version: Add parmesan, feta, or goat cheese to the spinach mixture for extra richness.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese or mashed avocado.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free puff pastry.
- Herb Upgrade: Incorporate fresh dill, chives, or thyme for more depth of flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the Wellington ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before using to avoid excess moisture.
2. What sides pair well with this dish?
Great options include roasted asparagus, a fresh arugula salad, or lemony quinoa.
3. How do I keep the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure the spinach mixture is cooled and pat the salmon dry before assembling.
4. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes! Cod, halibut, or trout are great alternatives.
5. What’s the best way to seal the pastry?
Use a light brush of water or egg wash along the edges before folding.
6. Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air-fry at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-18 minutes, checking for doneness.
7. How do I make sure the salmon stays moist?
Avoid overcooking—salmon is done when it reaches 125-130°F (52-54°C) internally.
8. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the Wellington, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
9. What wine pairs well with Salmon Wellington?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements it beautifully.
10. Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms blend well with the spinach filling.
Conclusion
This Salmon Wellington with Spinach & Puff Pastry is an easy yet elegant dish that’s perfect for special dinners, spring gatherings, or when you want a gourmet meal without too much effort. With flaky pastry, tender salmon, and a creamy spinach filling, every bite is packed with rich, fresh flavors. Try it today for a healthy, indulgent dinner that’s sure to impress!
