Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan

Get ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful ride! This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is like a cozy hug for your mouth—rich, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Imagine flaky salmon, perfectly seasoned with a smoky blackened spice rub, bursting with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling. It’s the kind of dish that’s elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight. Trust me, this recipe will leave you feeling like a five-star chef in no time, and the best part? It’s packed with flavor without being complicated. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan

This dish is a game-changer in the world of salmon! The blackened seasoning gives it that crispy, flavorful crust, while the creamy spinach and Parmesan filling adds a whole new layer of deliciousness. Here’s why it’s such a winner:

Flavor Explosion

The blackened seasoning gives the salmon that bold, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the spinach and Parmesan filling. It’s a flavor combo that’s downright irresistible!

Elegant Yet Simple

This dish looks impressive and tastes like you’ve spent hours preparing it, but the truth is, it’s surprisingly simple to make. A few quick steps and you’ve got a gourmet meal that’ll wow anyone.

Healthy and Hearty

Salmon is loaded with heart-healthy omega-3s, and when paired with the spinach, it’s a nutritious dish that still feels indulgent. It’s the perfect balance between healthy and comforting!

Quick and Easy

Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but fancy. No need to fuss with complex steps—just a little prep and you’re good to go.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. It’s flavorful, beautiful, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Ingredients

This recipe comes together with just a few simple ingredients, each one adding a layer of flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

Salmon Fillets

The star of the show! You’ll need skin-on, boneless salmon fillets for this recipe. They’re flaky and tender, making them perfect for stuffing.

Fresh Spinach

Spinach is the perfect balance to the richness of the salmon. It wilts down beautifully when cooked and adds a fresh, earthy flavor to the stuffing.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the salmon and spinach. It helps create a creamy texture when combined with the other stuffing ingredients.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess to the spinach filling. It helps bind everything together and makes the stuffing melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Blackened Seasoning

The magic spice mix! Blackened seasoning gives the salmon that signature smoky, spicy, and savory flavor. It’s bold and packs a punch.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is a must. It adds a punch of flavor to the spinach filling and complements the blackened seasoning beautifully.

Olive Oil

A bit of olive oil helps sear the salmon and ensures a golden, crispy crust. It also helps balance the richness of the dish.

Lemon

Fresh lemon juice gives the dish a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the salmon and stuffing. A squeeze of lemon before serving adds the perfect finishing touch.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make your Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan? Let’s get cooking!

1. Prepare the Spinach Filling

Start by sautéing the garlic in olive oil over medium heat. Once fragrant (about 1 minute), add the fresh spinach to the pan. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan until everything is well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prep the Salmon

Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket in the center of each salmon fillet. Be careful not to cut all the way through—just make a nice little space to stuff the filling into.

3. Stuff the Salmon

Once the spinach filling has cooled slightly, stuff it into the pockets of the salmon fillets. Don’t be afraid to pack it in there! The more filling, the better.

4. Season the Salmon

Generously sprinkle the blackened seasoning over the top of each salmon fillet. You want that smoky, spicy crust, so don’t be shy with the seasoning.

5. Sear the Salmon

Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Then, flip the salmon over and reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top of the salmon just before serving for a burst of brightness. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 370
Total Fat: 24g

• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 95mg
  Sodium: 730mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
  Protein: 38g
  Vitamin A: 40%
  Vitamin C: 10%
  Calcium: 20%
  Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

How to Serve Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete the meal. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Roasted Vegetables

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful plate.

Rice or Quinoa

A fluffy bed of rice or quinoa makes the perfect base for the blackened salmon. The grains soak up the delicious flavors from the fish and stuffing.

Salad

A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.

Mashed Potatoes

For something a little more indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes are a great side that complements the flavors of the blackened salmon.

Additional Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can prep the salmon fillets by stuffing them with the spinach mixture earlier in the day, then just cook them when you’re ready.
• Spice it Up: If you like extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the blackened seasoning for a spicier kick.
• Salmon Skin: Be sure to keep the skin on the salmon for the best crispiness and flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can remove it before serving.
• Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when it’s just cooked through and still slightly pink in the center. It should flake easily with a fork.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

A1: Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.

Q2: Can I use a different type of fish?

A2: You can try this recipe with other firm fish like trout or cod, but the cooking time may vary.

Q3: Can I make the spinach stuffing ahead of time?

A3: Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to stuff the salmon.

Q4: Can I make this recipe on the grill?

A4: Yes! You can grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it. Just be sure to wrap it in foil to prevent the filling from spilling out.

Q5: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

A5: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Q6: Can I substitute a different cheese for Parmesan?

A6: Yes, you can try mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor, but Parmesan gives it that signature salty, nutty taste.

Q7: What other herbs can I add to the spinach mixture?

A7: Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would all be great additions to the spinach filling for extra flavor.

Q8: Can I make this dish without the blackened seasoning?

A8: Yes, you can use a milder seasoning like Cajun or even just salt and pepper if you prefer something less spicy.

Q9: Can I freeze the leftover salmon?

A9: Yes! Wrap the leftover salmon in foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

Q10: How can I serve this dish for a special occasion?

A10: For an elegant touch, plate the salmon on a bed of risotto or with a drizzle of lemon butter sauce. Add a side of roasted vegetables for the perfect balance.

Conclusion

Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a dish that’s as indulgent as it is impressive. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a little something special, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. With its rich, savory flavor and easy prep, it’s the perfect way to elevate your next meal! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

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