Title: Wholesome Delight: Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan
Introduction: Elevate your dining experience with our exquisite Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan, a culinary masterpiece that marries succulent salmon with the vibrant flavors of spinach and savory Parmesan cheese. This delectable dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a nourishing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on, approximately 6 ounces each
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the cooked spinach to a mixing bowl. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Once the spinach has cooled, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl and stir to combine. This mixture will serve as the flavorful stuffing for the salmon fillets.
- Lay the salmon fillets skin-side down on a clean work surface. Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit along the side of each fillet, creating a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each salmon fillet with the spinach and Parmesan mixture, dividing it evenly among the fillets. Gently press the edges of the fillets to seal in the stuffing.
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the blackening seasoning.
- Sprinkle the blackening seasoning evenly over both sides of each stuffed salmon fillet, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down.
- Cook the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the blackened crust forms and the fish is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon to retain its moist and tender texture.
- Transfer the blackened salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven.
- Bake the salmon for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the stuffing is heated through and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Once fully cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish the stuffed salmon with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or dill, for a burst of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed salmon fillet
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 35g
Smart WW Points: 6 points per serving
Conclusion: Savor the sensational flavors of our Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan, a culinary delight that combines the richness of salmon with the wholesome goodness of spinach and Parmesan cheese. Not only is this dish a feast for the senses, but it also offers a nutritious meal option that’s low in Smart WW Points, making it ideal for those watching their weight or following a healthy lifestyle. Treat yourself to this gourmet experience and indulge in the exquisite flavors that await with each bite. Bon appétit!