Spinach & Cream Cheese Stuffed Salmon
Description
This Spinach & Cream Cheese Stuffed Salmon is a rich, flavorful, and protein-packed dinner featuring tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, cream cheese, garlic, and Parmesan. It’s elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper.
- Cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Stuff each salmon fillet with the spinach and cream cheese mixture.
- Brush salmon with olive oil and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes. Thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with the cream cheese.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
A: The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Its internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Q: What side dishes pair well with this salmon?
A: Roasted vegetables, asparagus, rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad are excellent choices.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes. Stuff the salmon up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.