Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the delightful flavors of the sea in every bite. This elegant dish combines the rich, buttery taste of salmon with a savory stuffing of lump crab meat and succulent shrimp. The mixture, enriched with cream cheese and fresh herbs, creates a deliciously creamy texture that harmonizes beautifully with the tender salmon. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a family feast, this recipe is sure to impress. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll take you through creating this amazing dish that’s as fantastic to look at as it is to eat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the most appealing aspects of Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is its ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, many of which you likely have at home, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. It’s family-friendly too, appealing to both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family meals.
Moreover, this dish can be prepared relatively quickly. With minimal cooking time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks will feel confident in their ability to create this delicious entrée. The flavor combination provides a unique culinary experience, ensuring every bite is satisfying and fresh.
Ingredients for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
To create this mouthwatering Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat: Fresh and tender, it brings a sweet ocean flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: For a burst of color and freshness.
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, perfect for a succulent main course.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened: Adds nice creaminess to the stuffing.
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Sweet and buttery, enhancing the stuffing’s texture.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A tangy note to balance the dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings brightness and acidity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a silky finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions: Adds a mild onion flavor to the stuffing mix.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: A blend of spices that adds depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a hint of garlic aroma.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing overall flavors.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Ensures moisture and richness in the stuffing.
Step-by-Step Directions for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C): This ensures a perfectly cooked salmon that flakes beautifully.
Prepare the stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, parsley, green onions, and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper and mix until well-combined and creamy.
Slice the salmon: Take your salmon fillets and make a deep pocket on the side of each fillet. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to create a space to hold the stuffing.
Stuff the salmon: Generously fill each pocket with the seafood mixture, ensuring each fillet has ample stuffing.
Bake the salmon: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place the stuffed salmon fillets on it, and drizzle with olive oil. Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
Tips & Tricks
- Chef’s Secret: If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a slight kick.
- Optional Extras: You can substitute crab meat with imitation crab if you want a more budget-friendly option.
- Cooking Hacks: Ensure the salmon is fresh, as this will make a significant difference in taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon pairs beautifully with a side of garlic sautéed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts, enhancing the meal’s overall freshness. A light, buttery sauce poured over the fish would elevate the dish even further.
For a celebratory touch, consider serving this dish alongside a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea. Finish off your meal with a light fruit sorbet for dessert, keeping the flavors bright and clean.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is not only delicious but also nutritious. On average, a serving contains around 350 calories, with healthy fats from salmon providing omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. The dish is also rich in protein, over 30 grams per serving, making it a wholesome choice for a balanced diet.
Storing Tips & Variations for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
If you have leftovers, storing them is simple! Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed salmon for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
For healthier swaps, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter stuffing option. You could also experiment with different types of seafood, such as scallops or lobster for a luxe twist on this dish.
Conclusion for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen, Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is your answer. It’s the perfect marriage of flavors and textures that your family and friends will rave about. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this extraordinary seafood recipe today!
FAQs
1. Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
2. What can I serve with Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon?
It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even pasta tossed in a light sauce.
3. How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, you can prepare and bake the salmon, then portion it for easy meals throughout the week.
5. Can I use frozen shrimp for the stuffing?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry before adding them to the mixture for the best texture and flavor.
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Ingredients
For the stuffing
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat Fresh and tender, brings a sweet ocean flavor.
- 4 fillets (6 oz each) salmon Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, perfect for a succulent main course.
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped Sweet and buttery, enhances the stuffing’s texture.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened Adds nice creaminess to the stuffing.
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise Ensures moisture and richness in the stuffing.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard A tangy note to balance the dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brings brightness and acidity.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions Adds mild onion flavor to the stuffing mix.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning A blend of spices that adds depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Gives a hint of garlic aroma.
- Salt and pepper to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing overall flavors.
For cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For a silky finish on the salmon.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, parsley, green onions, and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper and mix until well-combined and creamy.
- Take your salmon fillets and make a deep pocket on the side of each fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Stuffing and Baking
- Generously fill each pocket with the seafood mixture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place the stuffed salmon fillets on it, and drizzle with olive oil. Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.