Description
Stuffed Salmon is a delicious and elegant dish that features tender, flaky salmon fillets filled with creamy, flavorful stuffing. The stuffing can vary from classic creamy spinach to Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, it’s a versatile dish suitable for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets, skin removed
Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic powder or paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Stuffing:
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins:
Sun-dried tomatoes
Crumbled feta
Green onions
For Baking:
Oil or cooking spray (to grease the baking dish)
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon: Lay the salmon fillets on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket in each fillet, without cutting through. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Make the Stuffing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Stuff the Salmon: Using a spoon, gently stuff each salmon fillet with about two tablespoons of the mixture. Press lightly to keep the stuffing in place.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper. Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the dish, leaving space between each. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the fillets. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork and the top is golden.
Rest and Serve: Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used.
Notes
You can make this dish ahead by stuffing the salmon and refrigerating it until ready to bake.
Experiment with different fillings, such as Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Be careful not to overstuff the salmon to prevent the filling from spilling out while baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Fish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean, Fusion