Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan
Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned salmon with a creamy, cheesy filling. This recipe not only offers a burst of savory goodness but also fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma that promises a meal to remember. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this salmon dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress everyone at your table. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, the step-by-step guide below will help you create a mouthwatering meal your family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a wholesome meal without breaking a sweat. The cooking time is quick, typically around 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dish. This Blackened Salmon is not just a feast for the palate, but it also appeals to health-conscious diners with its lean protein and nutritious filling. It’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for both families and entertaining guests. Trust us, your dinner guests will be raving about this flavorful dish!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients to bring your Blackened Salmon to life:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each): Juicy and rich in flavor, providing the perfect canvas for spices.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a slight fruitiness and helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky depth to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warm, aromatic flavors that complement the salmon beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Provides a hint of heat; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing the overall flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed: Delivers vibrant color and a healthy boost.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic contributes to the aromatic kitchen ambiance.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey, it adds creaminess to the filling.
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Nutty and sharp, this elevates the flavor of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For richness and a silky sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Bright acidity that balances the richness of the salmon.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon.
Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This blend will provide a smoky flavor that perfectly contrasts the rich salmon.
Season the Salmon: Rub the spice mixture all over the salmon fillets, coating them nicely to ensure a burst of flavor in every bite.
Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, stir together the sautéed spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. This creamy mixture will be the star of the stuffing.
Cut the Salmon: Carefully cut a pocket in each salmon fillet. Be cautious not to slice all the way through to preserve the integrity of the fillet.
Stuff the Salmon: Generously stuff the seasoned salmon fillets with the cheesy spinach mixture, pressing it down gently to secure the filling inside.
Sear the Salmon: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a beautiful golden crust.
Bake the Salmon: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: While the salmon is baking, melt butter in a small pan over low heat. Stir in the lemon juice and cook until warmed through. This simple sauce will add a fresh finish to your dish.
Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy every bite!
Tips & Tricks
- For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon in the spice blend for up to an hour before cooking. This will deepen the flavors.
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon to achieve a good sear.
- Feel free to adjust the cheese types based on your preference. Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist!
- If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne or replace it with a touch of black pepper.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon completes this delectable meal nicely. This dish is perfect for romantic dinners, Sunday family lunches, or even a festive gathering.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan comes packed with nutrients. On average, it contains around 400 calories, with about 25 grams of protein and varying amounts of fats depending on the portion size. This dish also offers healthy greens and dairy, contributing to a balanced meal. Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon support heart health, making this dish not only delicious but nutritious.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store leftovers, allow the salmon to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the salmon before cooking; just ensure it is tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the salmon.
Variations:
- Substitute the Greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try using kale or Swiss chard.
- Different Proteins: This method works well with chicken breasts or tilapia if you want to switch things up.
- Add More Flavor: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the stuffing for an extra flavor meld.
Conclusion
We hope you’re excited to try this Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan recipe in your kitchen! The combination of flavors and textures promises to make this dish a household favorite. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe shines with its unique take on classic ingredients. Be sure to share your experience and any personal twists you make, as we love to hear how you’ve made the recipe your own!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salmon and stuff it, then cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely before preparing and stuffing.What sides do you recommend with this dish?
Great sides include roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a light pasta dish.How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque in the center.Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this a delightful option for those with dietary restrictions.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan!
Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan
Ingredients
For the salmon
- 4 fillets 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) Juicy and rich in flavor
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds a slight fruitiness and helps achieve a beautiful sear
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Imparts smoky depth
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Adds warm, aromatic flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) Provides a hint of heat
- Salt and black pepper, to taste Essential for enhancing overall flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Offers subtle sweetness
For the filling
- 2 cups 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed Delivers vibrant color and a healthy boost
- 1 clove 1 clove garlic, minced Contributes to aromatic flavor
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Adds creaminess
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Elevates flavor
For the sauce
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For richness
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon lemon juice Bright acidity balances richness
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the salmon fillets.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the sautéed spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
- Carefully cut a pocket in each salmon fillet.
- Generously stuff the seasoned salmon fillets with the cheesy spinach mixture.
Cooking
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- While the salmon is baking, melt butter in a small pan over low heat. Stir in lemon juice until warmed through.
- Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top and serve warm.