Salmon Pinwheel Recipe

Looking for a dinner recipe that looks restaurant-fancy but comes together in your home kitchen without the stress? Let me introduce you to the salmon pinwheel; a dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious. These elegant spirals of tender salmon wrapped around savory fillings will transform your weeknight dinner into something special.

The best part about making salmon pinwheel recipes? They're surprisingly simple once you know the technique. Whether you're cooking trader joe's salmon pinwheels or making them from scratch, this salmon pinwheel delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Background & Why This Recipe Stands Out

Salmon pinwheels have become incredibly popular because they solve a common dinner dilemma; you want something impressive without complicated techniques. The concept is simple: take a beautiful salmon fillet, spread it with a flavorful filling, roll it up, slice it into pretty rounds, and bake. What you get are gorgeous pinwheels that look like they came from a fancy bistro.

What makes this salmon pinwheel recipe stand out from others is the balance of flavors and textures. The cream cheese filling stays creamy while the salmon cooks to perfection, creating moisture in every bite. Plus, these salmon pinwheels are incredibly versatile; you can customize the filling based on what you have in your fridge or your dietary preferences. They work beautifully as a main course for dinner parties or even as an elegant appetizer when sliced smaller.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Recipe Variations & Substitutions
• Equipment Recommendations
• Storage & Meal Prep Tips
• The Secret to Restaurant-Quality Results
• FAQ
• Impress Everyone at Dinner Tonight
• Related
• Pairing
• Salmon Pinwheels

Ingredients

For the Salmon Pinwheels

• Salmon fillet (skin removed, rectangular shape preferred)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Fresh spinach (finely chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh dill (chopped)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil (for brushing)

Optional Add-ins

• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Capers
• Feta cheese (crumbled)

Substitutions

• For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese.
• If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill works.
• Kale can replace spinach for a heartier texture.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Salmon Fillet

1. Place your salmon fillet on a clean cutting board, skin-side down if not already removed.
2. Using a sharp knife, carefully remove any remaining skin by sliding the blade between the flesh and skin.
3. Check for pin bones by running your fingers along the fillet; remove any with tweezers or pliers.
4. Pat the salmon completely dry with paper towels; this helps the filling stick better.
5. If your fillet is thick, butterfly it by making a horizontal cut through the middle, opening it like a book to create a thinner, wider surface.
6. Place the salmon between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even ½-inch thickness.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
2. Mix with a fork until smooth and well combined; the mixture should be spreadable.
3. Add the finely chopped spinach, dill, and parsley to the cream cheese mixture.
4. Season generously with salt and black pepper; taste and adjust as needed.
5. If using optional add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes or capers, fold them in now.
6. Set the filling aside while you prepare your workspace for rolling.

Step 3: Assemble the Salmon Pinwheels

1. Lay the prepared salmon fillet flat on a large piece of plastic wrap, with the shorter end facing you.
2. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the salmon, leaving a 1-inch border on the far edge.
3. Starting from the edge closest to you, tightly roll the salmon away from you, using the plastic wrap to help guide it.
4. Once rolled, wrap the salmon pinwheel log tightly in plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal.
5. Refrigerate the rolled salmon for at least 30 minutes; this firms it up for easier slicing.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Remove the plastic wrap and slice the salmon roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels using a sharp knife.
8. Arrange the salmon pinwheel slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
9. Brush each pinwheel lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven on the middle rack.
2. Bake for 15-18 minutes, depending on thickness; the salmon should be opaque and flake easily.
3. For a golden top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
4. Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving; this allows juices to redistribute.

Expert Cooking Tips

Choose the Right Salmon

For the best results with salmon pinwheels, look for center-cut fillets that are rectangular in shape. Wild-caught salmon has a firmer texture, while farm-raised is more forgiving for beginners.

Key Rolling Techniques

• Keep your filling layer thin to prevent leaking
• Roll tightly without squeezing out the filling
• Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing
• Use a sharp knife dipped in water for clean cuts

Temperature Matters

Don't overbake your salmon pinwheel; pull it from the oven at 140°F internal temperature for perfect results.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Mediterranean Salmon Pinwheels

• Replace the spinach with roasted red peppers and add crumbled feta cheese to the cream cheese mixture.
• Include kalamata olives and a teaspoon of dried oregano for authentic Greek flavors. This variation pairs beautifully with a cucumber and tomato salad.

Smoked Salmon Pinwheels (Appetizer Version)

• For a no-cook option perfect for parties, use thinly sliced smoked salmon instead of raw.
• Spread the cream cheese filling on the smoked salmon, roll tightly, and slice. These smoked salmon pinwheels work wonderfully on a bagel or as part of a brunch spread.

Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly

This salmon pinwheel recipe is naturally low in carbs.

• To make it even more keto-friendly, increase the fat content by using full-fat cream cheese and adding extra olive oil or butter.
• Skip any sweet additions and focus on herbs and garlic.

Asian-Inspired Variation

• Swap the cream cheese for a mixture of mayo and wasabi.
• Add thinly sliced cucumber, avocado, and sesame seeds.
• Brush with a soy-ginger glaze during the last few minutes of baking.
• Serve with pickled ginger and soy sauce on the side.

Equipment Recommendations

• Sharp chef's knife: Essential for clean slicing through the salmon pinwheel without crushing it
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: For evening out the salmon thickness
• Rimmed baking sheet: Catches any juices and prevents oven messes
• Parchment paper or silicone mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier
• Plastic wrap: Critical for rolling and chilling the salmon securely
• Instant-read thermometer: Takes the guesswork out of doneness
• Fish tweezers: Makes removing pin bones much easier

Most of these tools are kitchen staples, but if you're just starting out, invest in a good knife first; it makes the biggest difference when working with salmon.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover baked salmon pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They're delicious cold in salads or reheated gently.
• You can also prepare the rolled, unsliced salmon log up to 24 hours ahead; just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and slice right before baking.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze unbaked salmon pinwheels for ultimate convenience.
• After slicing, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours).
• Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
• Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating Tips

• Reheat in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving if possible; it can make the salmon rubbery.
• If you must microwave, use 50% power in 30-second intervals.

FAQ

Impress Everyone at Dinner Tonight

These salmon pinwheels prove that impressive dinner recipes don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few simple techniques and quality ingredients, you've got a dish that looks like it took hours but comes together in about 30 minutes of active time. The salmon pinwheel is versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.

I love serving these with roasted asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes, but they're equally delicious alongside a fresh green salad and crusty bread. Once you master this basic salmon pinwheel recipe, you'll find yourself making it again and again, experimenting with different fillings and flavors each time. If you enjoyed this recipe, try my Salmon Cream Cheese Bagel Recipe for a breakfast twist, or check out my Air Fryer Crispy Salmon Bites for an easier weeknight option.

Happy cooking, and watch those pinwheels disappear! 🍣 - Viola

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Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Salmon Pinwheel recipe: