Spinach Salmon Puff Pastry is one of those dishes that looks and tastes like it took hours of effort, but it’s surprisingly easy to pull off. A golden, flaky pastry filled with tender salmon and a creamy spinach mixture is a winning combination that always impresses. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers elegance without the stress. The balance of buttery puff pastry, rich salmon, and earthy spinach creates a dish that feels luxurious yet comforting. Serve it as a main course with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables, and you’ll have a meal that feels restaurant-worthy.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup cream cheese or ricotta cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp fresh dill (optional)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

3. Add spinach and cook until wilted, then remove from heat.

4. Stir cream cheese, Parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and dill into the spinach mixture until creamy and combined. Set aside to cool slightly.

5. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle.

6. Place one salmon fillet in the center of the pastry. Spread half of the spinach mixture over the top.

7. Place the second salmon fillet on top, then cover with remaining spinach mixture.

8. Fold the puff pastry over the salmon, sealing the edges tightly. Trim excess pastry if needed.

9. Brush the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if desired.

10. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and puffed.

11. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving, approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 480

• Protein: 30 g

• Fat: 28 g

• Saturated Fat: 10 g

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 2 g

• Sodium: 470 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of fancy and approachable. The golden puff pastry makes it look like something straight out of a fine dining menu, but the actual process is very straightforward. The creamy spinach layer keeps the salmon moist while adding flavor and nutrients, and the lemon zest brightens everything up. It’s also versatile enough to work for holidays, Sunday dinners, or even a quick meal if you use store-bought puff pastry. Most importantly, the flavor combination is so satisfying that you’ll want to make it again and again.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

The inspiration behind this dish comes from classic European cooking, where salmon is often paired with greens and wrapped in pastry. It’s reminiscent of “Salmon Wellington,” a dish that features salmon wrapped in puff pastry with herbs, vegetables, or even mushroom duxelles. Over time, home cooks simplified the recipe to include spinach and cream cheese, making it more approachable but still delicious. The blend of French pastry techniques with Scandinavian love for salmon gives this recipe a truly international flair that feels timeless.

Ingredient Spotlight

Salmon is the star here, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of pastry. Spinach adds freshness, color, and an earthy taste while boosting the nutritional value with vitamins and iron. Puff pastry, the flaky base of this recipe, creates a buttery, crisp crust that ties everything together. Lemon juice and zest add brightness and balance the richness, while cream cheese gives the filling a luscious, creamy texture. Every ingredient is chosen to balance richness with freshness, indulgence with health.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of Spinach Salmon Puff Pastry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes the pastry soggy. If you want to make it ahead, assemble the puff pastry and filling, then wrap tightly and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh before serving for the best results. It’s also freezer-friendly—just freeze the unbaked pastry and bake straight from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

Common Variations to Try

There are endless ways to make this dish your own. Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different flavor. Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick. You can even replace salmon with chicken breast for a more budget-friendly option. For a lighter version, skip the cream cheese and use Greek yogurt instead. If you want a truly luxurious variation, add a layer of brie cheese between the salmon and spinach. Each variation brings a new personality to the recipe while keeping that flaky, comforting pastry element intact.

Pairing Recommendations

Spinach Salmon Puff Pastry pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness, while roasted asparagus or green beans make excellent vegetable companions. If you want to serve it for a special dinner, pair it with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the salmon’s richness. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or iced green tea works beautifully. It’s a dish that shines as the centerpiece, so pair it with light, fresh sides that won’t overwhelm its flavors.

Health Benefits

Though indulgent with its buttery puff pastry, this dish still delivers a nutritional punch thanks to salmon and spinach. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health, and it’s also an excellent source of protein. Spinach is loaded with iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, making it a nutrient powerhouse. By balancing these with the pastry, you get a meal that feels indulgent but is still nourishing. You can make it lighter by using reduced-fat cream cheese, whole wheat puff pastry (if available), or smaller portion sizes alongside a big salad.

Conclusion

Spinach Salmon Puff Pastry is a dish that manages to be both simple and impressive. With minimal effort, you can create a golden, flaky pastry filled with flavorful salmon and creamy spinach that’s guaranteed to wow your family or guests. It’s versatile enough for holidays, dinner parties, or a cozy meal at home, and it’s endlessly adaptable with different ingredients. The balance of rich, flaky pastry with bright, nutritious filling makes it a winner every time. Once you try it, this recipe will easily earn a permanent place in your cooking rotation.