Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Contrast: The spicy, crispy exterior of the blackened salmon perfectly complements the creamy, savory stuffing inside.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the salmon and essential vitamins from the spinach, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Versatile Preparation: Suitable for both casual family meals and elegant dinner parties, it’s a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The stuffing can be prepared in advance, streamlining the cooking process when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and fresh spinach; cook until the spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and combine the mixture with softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan until well blended. Set aside.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Carefully slice each salmon fillet horizontally to create a pocket, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture.
- Season the Salmon:
- In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Rub this spice blend evenly over the tops of the stuffed salmon fillets.
- Sear the Salmon:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tops are blackened and crispy.
- Bake:
- Transfer the seared salmon to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve:
- Plate the salmon and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
- Cook Time: Around 20 minutes.
- Total Time: About 35 minutes.
Variations
- Cheese Options: For a different flavor profile, substitute the Parmesan with feta or goat cheese.
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms into the stuffing for added depth.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat according to your preference.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place any leftover salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To maintain moisture, reheat the salmon in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it may dry out the fish.
FAQs
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thawed and well-drained frozen spinach can be used as a substitute for fresh spinach.
What side dishes pair well with this stuffed salmon?
Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
Is it possible to prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely, the stuffing can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?
Yes, after searing, you can finish cooking the salmon on a preheated grill over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
How can I prevent the stuffing from leaking out during cooking?
Ensure not to overfill the salmon pockets and press the edges together gently to help seal them.
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Thick, center-cut fillets are ideal as they hold the stuffing well and cook evenly.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
While salmon
Print
Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan is a flavorful and nutritious dish featuring bold spices and a creamy, cheesy filling. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this easy-to-make stuffed salmon is rich in protein, vitamins, and savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and spinach, cooking until wilted.
- Remove from heat and mix with cream cheese and Parmesan. Set aside.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Slice a pocket into each salmon fillet without cutting through completely.
- Stuff pockets with the spinach and cheese mixture.
- Season the Salmon:
- Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Rub spice blend over the stuffed salmon fillets.
- Sear the Salmon:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side until blackened.
- Bake:
- Transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve:
- Plate with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Notes
- Substitute Parmesan with feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
- Increase heat by adding cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Use thick, center-cut fillets for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
