Description
Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese is a flavorful and protein-packed dish featuring a crispy, spiced crust and a creamy spinach filling. This easy yet gourmet meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delicious balance of smoky, cheesy, and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Stuffing:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- Sauté Spinach: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Mix Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese and Parmesan. Mix until smooth. Set aside.
Prepare the Salmon
- Slice the Fillets: Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into each salmon fillet without slicing all the way through.
- Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the spinach-cheese mixture into each fillet, pressing gently to keep the filling inside.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub seasoning over the tops of the fillets.
Cook the Salmon
- Sear the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed salmon for 2-3 minutes per side until a blackened crust forms.
- Bake: Transfer the salmon to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve
- Garnish & Enjoy: Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Notes
- For Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Alternative Cheese Options: Substitute Parmesan with feta or ricotta for a different flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Pan-Seared, Baked
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
