Spinach Stuffed Salmon
Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets (6-8 oz each, skinless)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Spinach Filling:
In a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a slit in the side of each fillet to create a pocket (be careful not to cut all the way through).
Season the salmon fillets lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Stuff the Salmon:
Spoon the spinach and cream cheese mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet, evenly distributing the filling.
5. Sear the Salmon (Optional):
For extra flavor and texture, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. (You can skip this step and go straight to baking if preferred.)
6. Bake:
Transfer the stuffed salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with lemon juice.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve:
Garnish the salmon with fresh parsley or dill and serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.