Description
Indulge in a dish that perfectly balances richness and freshness with this Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce. This recipe combines the savory goodness of creamy spinach and cheese filling with the zesty elegance of lemon cream sauce, creating a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also loaded with flavor and nutrients, making it a delightful addition to your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something special, this recipe will exceed expectations.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach-Cheese Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- A pinch of salt and pepper
Mix the ingredients until they form a creamy, well-blended filling. Set aside.
Step 3: Prep the Salmon Fillets
Take the 4 skinless salmon fillets and, using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each fillet. Be sure not to slice all the way through. This pocket will hold the delicious spinach-cheese mixture.
Step 4: Stuff the Salmon
Spoon the spinach mixture into the pockets of each salmon fillet, evenly distributing the filling. Press lightly to secure the filling inside the salmon.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle each fillet with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Cream Sauce
While the salmon bakes, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 garlic clove, minced, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Next, stir in:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A pinch of salt and pepper
Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once the salmon is ready, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the warm lemon cream sauce generously over each fillet. For a finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Choose High-Quality Salmon
Opt for fresh, skinless salmon fillets for the best texture and flavor. Frozen salmon is a good alternative but must be fully thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture. - Prep Ingredients Ahead
Chop the spinach, soften the cream cheese, and measure all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process. - Be Careful When Cutting Pockets
Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the salmon pockets, ensuring not to cut all the way through. This helps hold the filling securely during baking. - Adjust Seasoning to Taste
Taste-test the spinach-cheese mixture and lemon cream sauce as you prepare them. Add more salt, pepper, or garlic if needed to suit your preferences. - Avoid Overcooking the Salmon
Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking will dry out the fish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed salmon fillet with sauce
- Calories: 425 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg