Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan

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Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan: A Gourmet Delight

Introduction:
If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to prepare at home, look no further than Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan. This elegant recipe brings together the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with the creamy, garlicky goodness of spinach and Parmesan filling. Not only is this dish perfect for impressing dinner guests, but it’s also packed with nutrients and easy to customize. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious creation!

Ingredients:
For the salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, as preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the stuffing:

  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Tips for Success:

  1. Use fresh salmon for the best flavor. Frozen fillets work too but ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry.
  2. Customize the stuffing by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or chopped artichokes.
  3. For a crispier crust, sear the salmon on high heat before finishing it in the oven.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Salmon:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Carefully slice a pocket into the thickest part of each salmon fillet, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through.
  2. Make the Stuffing:
    • In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
  3. Stuff the Salmon:
    • Spoon the stuffing mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  4. Season the Salmon:
    • Rub olive oil over the fillets and coat them evenly with the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Cook the Salmon:
    • Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side to create a flavorful crust.
    • Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
  6. Serve:
    • Remove the toothpicks, if used, and serve immediately. Garnish with additional parsley and a lemon wedge for extra freshness.

Description:
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a show-stopping dish that balances bold spices with creamy, cheesy filling. The blackened crust provides a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that perfectly complements the rich salmon and savory stuffing. Ideal for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Recommendations:

  • Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light side salad.
  • For a wine pairing, try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay to complement the salmon’s rich flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.

Enjoy creating this delectable dish, and let it elevate your dinner experience!

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