– 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (for blackening)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
Preparing Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is simple if you follow these clear steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Spinach Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped spinach until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the Stuffing: In a bowl, combine the wilted spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket into the side of each fillet, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
5. Stuff the Fillets: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each pocket of the salmon fillets, packing it in gently.
6. Season the Salmon: Rub the remaining olive oil over the top of each fillet. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt over the fillets, ensuring an even coating.
7. Bake: Place the stuffed salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Finish and Serve: For added texture, you can broil the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end to crisp up the top.