Description
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach Parmesan is a delicious and healthy main course featuring tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy blend of sautéed spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, and garlic. Seasoned with bold spices and baked to perfection, this dish offers a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Spinach Parmesan Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cook Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly to prepare for mixing.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach with softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly blended.
- Create Salmon Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket into the thick side of each salmon fillet without cutting through completely, creating space for the filling.
- Stuff Salmon: Spoon the spinach-Parmesan mixture into each salmon pocket, pressing gently to ensure the filling stays inside the fillets during cooking.
- Season Fillets: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Rub olive oil evenly over each stuffed salmon fillet, then coat with the prepared spice mixture.
- Bake: Arrange the stuffed salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Optional Broil: For a lightly crisp and browned top, broil the salmon for an additional 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- The spinach-Parmesan filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Serve stuffed salmon alongside roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Adjust cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the spiciness according to your taste preference.
