Trader Joe’s Salmon Pinwheels are a quick and easy way to make dinner. They can be cooked in the oven or air fryer. Their elegant presentation and cheesy herb filling make them a fancy but easy meal that’s great for both fancy dinners on the weekends and regular weeknight dinners!
Trader Joe’s salmon pinwheels are a quick and delicious appetizer that can be made in the oven with just a few simple steps. These flaky pastry wraps with creamy spinach and cheese filling make an easy yet elegant starter for any occasion
Learning how to cook Trader Joe’s salmon pinwheels in the oven is straightforward when you follow this fail-safe method. With the right ingredients, prep, and techniques, you’ll have restaurant-worthy results in no time.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
The key ingredients for perfect oven-baked salmon pinwheels include
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Trader Joe’s Salmon Pinwheels – These come pre-rolled with spinach and cheese filling. Look for 2 fresh pinwheels without any tears or holes.
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Olive oil or cooking spray – This helps prevent sticking and keeps pinwheels moist during baking.
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Seasonings – Kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice etc. Tailor flavors to your taste.
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Optional garnishes – Fresh dill, lemon wedges, parsley etc.
Double check you have all required ingredients and garnishes before starting. High quality components make all the difference in maximizing flavors.
Step 2: Prep the Baking Sheet
Preheating your oven and preparing the baking sheet are key first steps.
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Preheat oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot when pinwheels are ready.
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Line a sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly coat with olive oil or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes clean up easy.
Pro tip: Let pinwheels sit at room temperature 10-15 minutes before baking for more even cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Pinwheels
Place chilled salmon pinwheels on the oiled baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Gently brush or spray tops with a bit more olive oil or cooking spray to lock in moisture while baking.
Step 4: Season the Pinwheels
Sprinkle pinwheels lightly with preferred seasonings – kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder all work nicely.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over pinwheels for a bright, citrusy burst. Go light at first, as fillings are pre-seasoned.
Step 5: Bake the Pinwheels
Bake salmon pinwheels for 12-15 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
Test for doneness by inserting a fork in thickest part. Flaky, moist meat means they’re ready.
For color, broil 1-2 minutes at end watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove pan from oven and transfer pinwheels to a serving platter.
Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color.
Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Handy Tips for Oven Perfection
Follow these handy tips for flawless oven results:
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Watch thickness – Thicker pinwheels need a few extra baking minutes. Check often.
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Prevent unrolling – If ends loosen while baking, simply tuck back under.
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Use a meat thermometer – Ensures pinwheels reach safe 145°F internal temperature.
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Let rest before serving – Carryover cooking increases temp 5-10°F out of oven.
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Adjust seasonings – Add more to taste after baking if needed.
Pair with Perfect Sides and Sauces
Trader Joe’s salmon pinwheels deserve equally delicious accompaniments. Here are some tasty pairings:
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Dipping sauces – Lemon dill, creamy horseradish, aioli, mustard dill, etc. Elevate flavors.
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Crunchy breads – Toasted baguette, focaccia, pita chips or crackers. Provides texture contrast.
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Bright salads – Arugula, spinach, mixed greens with vinaigrette dressing. Cuts richness.
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Roasted vegetables – Brussels sprouts, asparagus, potatoes, carrots. Wholesome and hearty.
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Cheesy additions – Parmesan crisps, baked brie, gruyere. Richness enhances salmon.
Get creative with seasonal produce, artisanal breads and gourmet ingredients to take these pinwheels to the next level.
Handy Storage Tips
Leftover salmon pinwheels keep well with proper storage. Follow these tips:
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Allow to cool completely before storing.
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Refrigerate in airtight container up to 2 days.
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Freeze for longer storage (2-3 months). Thaw overnight before using.
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Reheat gently in oven at 300°F or until warmed through.
With the right prep and baking technique, you can enjoy incredible gourmet salmon pinwheels from the comfort of home. Impress guests with your culinary skills by mastering this easy oven method. In no time, you’ll be serving restaurant-worthy appetizers bursting with flavor.
How to Cook Salmon Pinwheels in the Oven
If you’re making two pinwheels and don’t have a big air fryer or one at all, you can also cook this tasty meal in the oven.
Let’s Get Started! Here’s What You’ll Need:
You can buy salmon pinwheels at Trader Joe’s in a two-pack. If you want to cook both of them at the same time, try to buy a package with portions that are about the same size so that they cook at the same time.
You’ll need cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray if you’re not using the foil packet method to steam the pinwheels. This will keep the salmon from sticking to the pan or air fryer basket.
If you want, you can add a wedge of lemon as a garnish. That way, everyone can squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top of the salmon if they want to. If you want to be extra fancy you could even add some lemon zest.
Either an air fryer or an oven will work. If you want the salmon to cook quickly, I suggest using an air fryer. Roasting them in the oven will offer the same results, but will take slightly longer.
Aluminum foil (not required): You can make a foil packet out of aluminum foil or use it to make cleanup easier. It will take longer to steam the salmon inside the foil, but the fish may be more tender if that’s what you want. You could also use parchment paper for easier clean up.
Meat thermometer – Important for making sure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of the USDA-recommended 145°F.
EASY & HEALTHY DINNER RECIPE| TRADER JOES Salmon Pinwheels| 600 calorie meal!
FAQ
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