Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan
Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a rich, savory dish that pairs the smoky spice of perfectly seared salmon with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling. Topped with a bright and buttery lemon sauce, this elegant yet easy dinner is ideal for a special occasion or a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
1. Preheat and Season:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub salmon fillets with olive oil, then coat them evenly with the spice mix.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine sautéed spinach with Parmesan and mozzarella. Mix until evenly blended.
3. Stuff the Salmon:
Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet without cutting through the other side. Gently stuff each pocket with the spinach and cheese filling, pressing it in securely.
4. Sear and Bake:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed fillets and sear each side for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Make the Sauce:
While the salmon bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the lemon juice and simmer for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. Serve:
Plate the salmon and drizzle with lemon butter sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges or chopped parsley, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or baby carrots
- A crisp garden salad
- Steamed rice, herbed quinoa, or mashed potatoes
This stuffed salmon brings gourmet flavor to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Health Benefits
This dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Salmon provides high-quality protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
- Spinach adds fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
- Cheese offers calcium and creamy richness, making the dish satisfying without heavy carbs.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a healthy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is the answer. With its spicy crust, cheesy filling, and zesty lemon butter, every bite is satisfying and memorable. Make it tonight and turn an ordinary meal into something truly special.