Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan
A delightful dish that combines rich flavors of seasoned salmon with a creamy, cheesy filling, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 400kcal
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.
Notes
For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon in the spice blend for up to an hour before cooking. Adjust cheese types and cayenne based on personal preference.