4salmon fillets6 oz each, skinless, preferably center-cut
Salt and freshly ground black pepperto taste
1tspsmoked paprikaoptional, for smokiness
1tbspolive oil
Spinach Herb Filling
8ozfresh baby spinach leaveswashed and tough stems removed
1small shallotfinely chopped
1garlic cloveminced
2tbspunsalted butter
2tbspcream cheese or mascarpone
½tsplemon zest
Pinchof nutmeg
Salt and pepper
Puff Pastry Wrap
1sheet frozen puff pastryabout 8×8 in, thawed
1eggbeaten (for egg wash)
Lemon Cream Sauce
1cupheavy cream
2tbspunsalted butter
1tspDijon mustard
1tsplemon zest
1tbspfresh lemon juiceplus more to taste
Salt and pepperto taste
To Garnish (optional)
Fresh dill sprigs or chopped chives
Thin lemon slices
Instructions
Prep the Spinach Filling
In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add the shallot and cook until translucent (about 2 minutes), then stir in garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Add spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and nutmeg. Stir in the cream cheese until the mixture is creamy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Season the Salmon
Pat the fillets dry. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
Assemble the Pastry Wrap
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth seams but keep roughly original dimensions.
Place a salmon fillet on the pastry. Spoon a quarter of the spinach filling over the top (optional: layer salmon spinach underneath or over the fish). Fold the pastry up around the fillet, sealing seams by pinching or folding under. Brush with egg wash. Repeat for all fillets.
Bake to Flaky Perfection
Transfer each parcel to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until pastry is puffed and golden and fish registers 125–130°F internally. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes (residual heat finishes cooking).
Prepare the Lemon Cream Sauce
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter. Whisk in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer gently until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes), stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Plate and Serve
Place the baked salmon wellington on warmed plates. Spoon lemon cream sauce alongside or drizzle on top. Garnish with dill or chives and a lemon slice. Serve immediately with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad.