Description
A delicious and elegant blackened salmon recipe stuffed with a creamy spinach and Parmesan cheese mixture. This dish features perfectly seared salmon fillets with a flavorful crust, baked to tender, flaky perfection. Ideal for a quick, nutritious dinner packed with protein and leafy greens.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- â…“ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- Sauté Spinach: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and releases moisture.
- Mix Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Slice the Fillets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each salmon fillet, slicing almost through but keeping the fillet intact to hold the filling.
- Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each salmon fillet pocket, pressing gently to secure the filling inside without overstuffing.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over the tops of the stuffed salmon fillets.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a dark blackened crust forms, carefully turning to avoid spilling the filling.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seared salmon fillets to a baking dish or oven-safe pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges to add a bright, zesty finish to the dish.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
- Do not overstuff the salmon fillets to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the salmon carefully to a baking dish after searing.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the paprika and salt.
- Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
