Name: Stuffed Salmon in Air Fryer (10 Mins) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 tbsp ricotta cheese; 100g frozen spinach, defrosted and excess liquid squeezed out; 1 tbsp harissa paste; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Pinch of salt; 2 (260g each) salmon fillets; Oil, for drizzling

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Introduction

This stuffed salmon recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a healthy dinner. Using an air fryer, you can prepare tender salmon filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture in just 10 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing without the fuss.

Two pieces of cooked salmon fillet lie side by side on a white plate. Each fillet has a golden-orange base layer with a slightly crispy texture on the edges. On top of the salmon is a thick green herb and spinach mixture, browned and slightly rough, with visible leafy bits and a few black pepper specks. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. The lighting shows the moist and tender texture of the fish and the cheesy, herby topping clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets (260g each)
4 tbsp ricotta
100g frozen spinach, defrosted
1 tbsp harissa paste
1/2 tsp black pepper
Pinch of salt
Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Defrost the frozen spinach by microwaving it, then squeeze out any excess liquid. In a bowl, combine the spinach with ricotta, harissa paste, black pepper, and salt, mixing well.
Step 2: Lay the salmon fillets flesh side up. Carefully slice down the center of the thickest part of each fillet vertically, cutting through to the skin to create a pocket for the filling.
Step 3: Stuff each salmon fillet with two tablespoons of the spinach and ricotta mixture, pressing it gently into the cut. Place the stuffed fillets on tinfoil and drizzle with olive oil.
Step 4: Place the salmon in your air fryer and cook at 370°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Depending on your air fryer model, cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on the salmon to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: When cooked through and flaky, remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, substitute harissa paste with tomato paste or roasted red pepper sauce.
Try adding some lemon zest to the filling for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Use fresh spinach instead of frozen – simply wilt it down in a pan, squeeze out liquid, and proceed as directed.
If you don’t have ricotta, cream cheese or cottage cheese can make a good alternative.
Make sure not to overstuff the salmon to prevent filling from spilling during cooking.

Storage

Store any leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven at a low temperature to maintain moisture and texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the fish.

How to Serve

Two cooked salmon fillets rest on a white plate with a light brown edge, placed on a white marbled surface. Each fillet has a thick green herb and cream topping that looks browned and textured with bits of leafy spinach and melted cheese. The salmon beneath is pink and slightly glazed with a cooked, flaky appearance. A golden fork pricks the nearest fillet, showing the soft layers inside as the fish flakes apart gently. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh salmon works great for this recipe. Just ensure it’s thoroughly cleaned and patted dry before slicing and stuffing.

Is it necessary to use harissa paste in the filling?

Harissa adds a spicy, smoky flavor, but it’s optional. You can replace it with other flavorings like pesto, sun-dried tomato paste, or simply omit it for a milder taste.