Description
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a deliciously smoky, flavorful dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with a creamy spinach and Parmesan filling. The blackened seasoning on the outside creates a crispy, bold crust, while the cheesy spinach stuffing adds richness and depth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish is nutritious, easy to make, and packed with omega-3s, iron, and vitamins. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or hosting a special event, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 1.5 inches thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Set them aside.
- Blacken the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a blackened crust. The fish should still be slightly undercooked in the middle.
- Prepare Spinach Filling: In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and combined with the spinach. Remove from heat.
- Stuff the Salmon: Carefully slice a pocket into the center of each salmon fillet, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Stuff each fillet with the spinach and Parmesan mixture, dividing it evenly among the fillets.
- Bake: Transfer the stuffed salmon fillets to a baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the spinach mixture for an extra kick.
- Cheese: For a different flavor, try substituting the Parmesan with mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or basil can be added to the spinach mixture for added freshness.
- Vegetarian: Swap the salmon for portobello mushrooms or a large zucchini for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
