Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

Introduction:

Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese. This dish features tender salmon fillets with a spicy, crisp crust, stuffed with a creamy, savory mixture of spinach, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Perfect for a sophisticated dinner that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

1. Prepare the Stuffing

• In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
• Mix until the stuffing is well incorporated and creamy. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Salmon

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
• Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit along the side of each fillet to create a pocket for the stuffing.

3. Season the Salmon

• In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
• Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring both the outside and inside of the pockets are coated.

4. Stuff the Salmon

• Spoon the spinach-Parmesan mixture into the pocket of each fillet.
• Gently press to secure the filling inside the salmon. If needed, use toothpicks to keep the stuffing in place.

5. Blacken the Salmon

• Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side up, and cook for 2-3 minutes until a dark crust forms.
• Flip the fillets and cook for another 2 minutes.

6. Bake the Salmon

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the stuffing is hot and bubbly.

7. Serve

• Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired, and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Variations

• Cheese Alternatives: Swap Parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh dill or basil in the stuffing for a fresh twist.
• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, just make sure to fully thaw the salmon before cooking.

2. What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet? You can use any oven-safe skillet or transfer the salmon to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.

3. Can I use other greens besides spinach? Yes, kale or Swiss chard would work well as substitutes.

4. How do I know when the salmon is cooked? The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the salmon up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

6. What sides go well with this dish? Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement the salmon well.

7. Can I grill the salmon instead of blackening it in a skillet? Yes, grilling adds a great smoky flavor to the dish.

8. Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free? Substitute the Parmesan and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives.

9. Can I use smoked salmon for this recipe? Smoked salmon would give a different flavor and doesn’t require cooking, so it’s not ideal for this recipe.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish? A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs nicely with the flavors.

Conclusion

Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures. With its spicy, crispy crust and creamy, savory filling, this dish is perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight treat. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both sophisticated and satisfying!

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