There’s something magical about the aroma of stuffed salmon wafting through your kitchen, drawing in family and friends like moths to a flame. Picture this: tender, flaky salmon fillets generously filled with a creamy blend of cheese, herbs, and maybe a bit of lemon zest for that extra zing. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your palate and makes your taste buds sing a joyful chorus.
Now, imagine serving this delightful dish at your next dinner party. Watch as everyone gathers around the table, their eyes wide with anticipation as you unveil the masterpiece. The first bite brings a symphony of flavors—rich salmon enveloping a luscious filling that’s both comforting and elegant. Trust me; you’ll want to make this stuffed salmon recipe again and again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This stuffed salmon recipe is simple yet impressive, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
- The harmonious blend of flavors creates an unforgettable experience for your taste buds
- With its vibrant colors, this dish will be the star of your dinner table
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides, it complements any meal beautifully
I remember the first time I made stuffed salmon for my family; their eyes lit up, and my dad declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That kind of reaction is what keeps me cooking!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Salmon Fillets: Aim for fresh, skinless fillets about six ounces each; they cook evenly and stay moist.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds richness; feel free to play with flavors like garlic or herb-infused.
Fresh Herbs: Choose dill or parsley for freshness; they brighten up the dish beautifully.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice balances the richness; it’s like sunshine on your plate.
Garlic Powder: This little gem adds depth to the stuffing without overpowering the delicate salmon flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to add texture; they keep everything from getting too mushy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step helps ensure even cooking for our lovely salmon.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with fresh herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, and breadcrumbs until you achieve an even consistency. It should be creamy but not too runny.
Stuff the Salmon: Lay each salmon fillet flat on a cutting board. Generously spoon the cream cheese mixture onto one half of each fillet. Fold over the other half like a delicious book waiting to be devoured.
Sear for Flavor: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place each stuffed salmon fillet in the pan skin-side down (if applicable) and sear for about 3-4 minutes until you see a golden crust forming.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. The salmon should flake easily with a fork—just like life’s little rewards!
Serve and Enjoy!: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or fluffy rice pilaf for an impressive meal everyone will love.
With these steps completed, you’ve transformed simple ingredients into an extraordinary dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Enjoy making your stuffed salmon—a dish that promises laughter around the table as much as it does flavor in every bite!
You Must Know
- Stuffed salmon is not just delicious; it’s a crowd-pleaser that elevates any dinner party
- The vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make each bite a little piece of heaven on a plate
- Plus, it’s easier to prepare than you might think!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Sear the salmon on both sides in a skillet before transferring it to the oven for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients in the stuffing, using herbs like dill or spinach instead of traditional options. Add some cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For stuffed salmon perfection, make sure your fish is fresh and avoid overcooking it
- A splash of lemon juice brightens flavors beautifully
- Don’t skip letting the salmon rest after cooking; this keeps it moist and flavorful
Sometimes, I whip up stuffed salmon for friends, and they rave about it for weeks! It’s amazing how good food creates unforgettable memories together.
FAQ
What type of salmon is best for stuffing?
Sockeye or king salmon works great due to their rich flavor and firm texture.
Can I freeze stuffed salmon?
Yes, freeze it unbaked, then thaw and bake later for fresh taste!
What sides pair well with stuffed salmon?
Serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Stuffed Salmon
Stuffed salmon is an exquisite dish that combines flaky salmon fillets with a creamy filling of cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon. This delightful recipe not only impresses at dinner parties but also makes for a comforting weeknight meal. With its vibrant colors and harmonious flavors, every bite promises a culinary experience that will leave your guests asking for more.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients
- 2 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, and breadcrumbs until smooth.
- Place each salmon fillet on a cutting board. Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto one half and fold the other half over.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed salmon for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving with sides like roasted vegetables or rice pilaf.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
