Introduction to Seafood-Stuffed Salmon
When life gets busy, a flavorful dish like Seafood-Stuffed Salmon can be a lifesaver! As a passionate home cook, I understand how overwhelming it can be to juggle work, family, and the endless quest for dinner inspiration. This succulent salmon, packed with a delightful mix of crab and shrimp, is not just easy to make, but it also impresses even the pickiest of eaters. With its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering flavors, this dish becomes your go-to for those special nights or even just a quick solution for a weekday dinner. Let’s dive into how to make this culinary delight!
Why You’ll Love This Seafood-Stuffed Salmon
This Seafood-Stuffed Salmon is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for busy moms like me, as it takes just 45 minutes from prep to plate! Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it a delightful option for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, the impressive presentation means you can easily wow your guests. You’ll find this dish to be an irresistible combination of taste and ease—winning in every way!
Ingredients for Seafood-Stuffed Salmon
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making your Seafood-Stuffed Salmon a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wild-Caught Salmon Filets: Choose large filets for stuffing. Fresh fish will elevate the dish.
- Jumbo Lump Crab: This sweet, tender crab adds a luxurious touch. Look for fresh or good-quality canned options.
- Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, shrimp create a delightful texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works just fine.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese binds the stuffing together and adds creaminess. You can use reduced-fat varieties, too.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the stuffing, giving it a zesty kick. Freshly squeezed makes a big difference!
- Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness. Swap it with cilantro for a different flavor.
- Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor. Regular onions can be used if that’s all you have.
- Garlic: Minced garlic is a flavor powerhouse. Fresh cloves are best, but jarred garlic can work in a hurry.
- Old Bay Seasoning: A blend of spices that perfectly complements seafood, bringing warmth and depth. Other seafood seasonings can be substituted.
- Cardamom: A unique spice that adds an aromatic hint. A pinch goes a long way, so keep it subtle.
- Complete Seasoning: This all-purpose mix enhances flavor. It’s handy for busy nights!
- Adobo Seasoning: This adds a nice touch of heat. Leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Onion Powder: For an extra layer of flavor, but feel free to skip it if you don’t have it on hand.
- Paprika: It adds a pop of color and smokiness. You can use sweet or smoked paprika according to your taste.
- Shredded Mozzarella: For that cheesy texture. You can use any melting cheese if mozzarella isn’t available.
- Grated Parmesan: Adds a punch of flavor. Freshly grated is the best option, but pre-grated is convenient too.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential to enhance all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste.
- Butter: It brings richness to the dish and is used for adding flavor while baking.
Ingredients with exact quantities can be found at the end of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Seafood-Stuffed Salmon
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly. While that’s warming up, take a moment to mince the garlic and chop the parsley and green onions. As you do this, your kitchen will start to smell amazing! Don’t forget to season your shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step sets the stage for the fullness of flavor later. Have everything handy, because once we start cooking, it will come together quickly!
Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp
In a medium pan over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of paprika, stirring for about 30 seconds. You want to avoid burning the garlic—it’s fragile! Then, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for around 3 minutes until they are lightly browned and cooked through. The shrimp should appear pink and firm. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside; they’ll be joining our stuffing soon!
Step 3: Mixing the Stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, green onions, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. Now, gently fold in the lump crab, shrimp, mozzarella, Parmesan, and all the spices except Old Bay. It’s important to not overmix—this keeps the stuffing light and fluffy. Think of it as a warm hug for your salmon! The stuffing should be speckled with bits of seafood and herbs once finished.
Step 4: Assembling the Salmon
Season both large salmon filets with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning. Place one filet in an oven-safe pan and spread the stuffing evenly over the top. Think of the stuffing as a cozy blanket! Now, gently place the second filet on top, sandwiching the stuffing in between. It will look delicious already! Don’t worry if a little bit of stuffing spills out; it adds to the charm.
Step 5: Baking the Salmon
Dot the top of the salmon with 1 tablespoon of butter for extra flavor. Now, pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This allows the salmon to become flaky and tender while the stuffing heats up. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keeping an eye on it is key, so you don’t miss that perfect moment of doneness!
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once the salmon is baked, it’s time for the showstopper! Remove it from the oven and gently spread the remaining stuffing on top. Now, broil for an additional 5 minutes. This gives it that golden, crispy finish that looks stunning on the dinner table. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. It’s not just food; it’s an experience waiting to be shared with loved ones!
Tips for Success
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to save minutes during cooking.
- Ensure your cream cheese is well softened for easy mixing.
- Season your shrimp generously for maximum flavor.
- Monitor the salmon closely while broiling to avoid burning.
- Feel free to mix and match seafood for your stuffing!
- Let the salmon rest a few minutes before slicing for better presentation.
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe Pan: A baking dish will work if you don’t have a specific pan.
- Medium Pan: Any skillet works for sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for the stuffing. You can also use a stand mixer for convenience.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Handy for accurate ingredient amounts, though you can eyeball for simplicity.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping and prepping ingredients.
Variations
- Seafood Medley: Swap out crab and shrimp for other seafood like scallops or lobster for a rich twist.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a blend of sautéed mushrooms and spinach in place of seafood for a meatless option.
- Spicy Option: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing for a kick of heat.
- Herbed Version: Try using different fresh herbs like dill or tarragon to brighten the flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all seasonings and cheeses used are gluten-free for a safe alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Seafood-Stuffed Salmon
- Veggies: Serve with steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli for a colorful plate.
- Starch: Pair with fluffy jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavors.
- Salad: A light arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
- Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio will elevate your meal.
- Presentation: Garnish with lemon wedges for a fresh pop of color on the plate.
FAQs about Seafood-Stuffed Salmon
Can I make Seafood-Stuffed Salmon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and assemble the salmon a few hours in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an excellent option for entertaining!
What if I don’t have crab?
No worries! You can easily substitute with additional shrimp or even a mixture of your favorite seafood. The beauty of this seafood dish lies in its versatility!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze cooked Seafood-Stuffed Salmon for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating for the best taste!
What sides pair well with this dish?
This salmon works beautifully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a refreshing cucumber salad. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Indeed! The main ingredient is salmon, making it a great option for low-carb or keto diets. Just pair it with low-carb sides for a complete meal!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Seafood-Stuffed Salmon isn’t just about preparing a meal; it’s about gathering loved ones around the table to share delicious moments. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that tell a story of warmth and comfort. This dish has a way of making ordinary evenings feel special, transforming busy weeknights into dining experiences. Plus, it’s a conversation starter! Trust me, as you serve this breathtaking salmon, your family and friends will be in awe. Enjoy the joy that comes from cooking and sharing this delightful recipe!
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Seafood-Stuffed Salmon
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
When life gets busy, a flavorful dish like Seafood-Stuffed Salmon can be a lifesaver! As a passionate home cook, I understand how overwhelming it can be to juggle work, family, and the endless quest for dinner inspiration. This succulent salmon, packed with a delightful mix of crab and shrimp, is not just easy to make, but it also impresses even the pickiest of eaters. With its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering flavors, this dish becomes your go-to for those special nights or even just a quick solution for a weekday dinner. Let’s dive into how to make this culinary delight!
Ingredients
- 2 large (16 oz) wild-caught salmon filets
- 1 (8 oz) cup jumbo lump crab
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tsp cardamom
- 1 tsp Badia complete seasoning
- 1 tsp adobo seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp paprika (separated)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mince garlic, and chop parsley and green onions. Season shrimp with salt and pepper and set aside.
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and 1 tsp of paprika, stirring for 30 seconds to avoid burning. Add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, parsley, green onions, and lemon juice until smooth. Gently fold in lump crab, shrimp, mozzarella, Parmesan, and all seasonings (except Old Bay). Do not overmix.
- Season both salmon filets with salt, pepper, and Old Bay. Lay one filet in an oven-safe pan and spread the stuffing evenly over it. Place the second filet on top, sandwiching the stuffing. Reserve extra stuffing for topping later.
- Add 1 tbsp butter on top of the salmon and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, spread the remaining stuffing on top, and broil for an additional 5 minutes for a golden finish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
Notes
- This dish pairs well with a side of vegetables or rice.
- Make sure to use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Can substitute other seafood if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 filet
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
