Description
Blackened Spinach Stuffed Salmon emerges as a culinary masterpiece blending bold flavors and elegant technique. Delicate salmon fillets packed with zesty spinach create a gourmet experience that will delight seafood enthusiasts and spark excitement at your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces/170 grams each)
Filling Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Blackening Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly coat a baking sheet with non-stick spray to ensure easy release of the fish.
- In a skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add fresh spinach and cook until completely wilted and moisture evaporates.
- Allow the spinach mixture to cool, then thoroughly blend with softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan to create a smooth, rich filling.
- Carefully slice a horizontal pocket into each salmon fillet, taking care not to cut completely through the fish.
- Combine blackening spices in a small bowl, then generously coat the entire surface of each salmon fillet, ensuring even coverage.
- Gently stuff the prepared spinach-cheese mixture into the pocket of each fillet, pressing softly to seal and distribute evenly.
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining space between each piece for consistent cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, checking that the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork when tested.
Notes
- Choose fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture, ensuring a more delicate and rich taste.
- Pat salmon fillets completely dry before cutting pockets to help seasoning stick and prevent excess moisture during cooking.
- For a lighter version, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta to reduce fat while maintaining creamy consistency.
- Gluten-free diners can confidently enjoy this recipe as all ingredients are naturally gluten-free; just double-check spice blend components.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg