Description
This Stuffed Salmon is an elegant and flavorful dish perfect for a special dinner or a healthy weeknight meal. Filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, the salmon is baked to perfection, resulting in a tender, flaky, and incredibly delicious dish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
(Serves 4)
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each), skinless and boneless
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Rub each fillet with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Make the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff the Salmon:
- Divide the filling into 4 equal portions and spoon it into the pocket of each salmon fillet. Press gently to close the pockets.
5. Bake:
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
6. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.
Notes
- Spinach Substitution: Use kale or arugula if you don’t have spinach.
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Pan-Seared Option: For a crispier texture, sear the salmon in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before baking.