Seafood Stuffed Salmon

If you’re looking for an elegant yet simple seafood dish that’s packed with flavor, seafood stuffed salmon is the perfect choice. This dish takes a tender, flaky salmon fillet and fills it with a rich and creamy seafood stuffing made with crab, shrimp, and a blend of savory seasonings. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, making it perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or even a weeknight indulgence.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors. The mild, buttery salmon pairs beautifully with the sweet and briny seafood stuffing, while a touch of lemon juice and fresh herbs adds a bright, refreshing contrast. Plus, this dish is baked to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result every time. Whether you’re serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of garlic butter rice, seafood stuffed salmon is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Stuffed Salmon

• Elegant yet easy: Looks like a gourmet dish but is simple enough to prepare at home.

• Flavor-packed: A delicious combination of tender salmon and creamy seafood stuffing.

• Protein-rich: Packed with healthy proteins from both the salmon and seafood filling.

• Versatile: Can be customized with different seafood, herbs, and spices.

• Perfect for any occasion: Great for dinner parties, date nights, or a special weeknight meal.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Protein: 48g

• Fat: 25g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients for Seafood Stuffed Salmon

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6-8 oz each), skin-on or skinless

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Seafood Stuffing:

• ½ cup cooked shrimp, chopped

• ½ cup lump crab meat (or imitation crab)

• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1 small green onion, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For Garnish:

• Lemon wedges

• Fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions for Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the salmon fillets on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thickest part of each fillet, being careful not to slice all the way through.

3. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Make the Seafood Stuffing

4. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, green onion, parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese.

5. Stir until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Salmon

6. Spoon a generous amount of the seafood mixture into each salmon pocket. Press down gently to ensure it stays in place.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

7. Place the stuffed salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.

8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

9. Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in seafood stuffed salmon plays a crucial role in creating a well-balanced dish that is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. From the delicate sweetness of crab and shrimp to the bold seasoning of Old Bay, every component brings something special to the table.

Salmon

Salmon is the foundation of this dish, known for its buttery texture and high omega-3 content. This heart-healthy fish is packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like vitamin D and B12. When baked, salmon remains tender and juicy, making it the perfect vessel for a creamy seafood stuffing.

Shrimp and Crab Meat

The seafood stuffing combines two delicious seafood options—shrimp and crab. Shrimp is slightly firm with a mild, slightly sweet flavor, while lump crab meat adds a delicate richness that pairs perfectly with the salmon. Both are excellent sources of lean protein and provide key minerals like selenium and iodine, which support thyroid health.

Cream Cheese and Parmesan

The creamy texture of the stuffing comes from cream cheese, which adds a luscious consistency while helping to bind all the ingredients together. Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, salty element that enhances the overall umami taste of the dish, making every bite more flavorful.

Old Bay Seasoning and Lemon Juice

Old Bay seasoning is a must-have for seafood lovers, as it adds a slightly spicy, smoky depth to the dish. Made from a blend of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and other spices, it enhances the natural flavors of both the salmon and the stuffing. Meanwhile, lemon juice cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a fresh, citrusy brightness that balances out the flavors.

Technique Tips for Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Perfecting seafood stuffed salmon is all about getting the right balance of flavors and textures while ensuring the salmon remains juicy and the stuffing holds together.

One key technique is cutting the salmon pocket correctly. Use a sharp knife to slice into the thickest part of the salmon fillet, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through. This allows the stuffing to stay inside while baking, ensuring a beautiful presentation and even cooking.

When preparing the stuffing, mix the ingredients well but don’t overwork the seafood. You want the crab and shrimp to remain slightly chunky for a better texture. Overmixing can make the stuffing too dense and lose its light, fluffy consistency.

Baking the salmon at 375°F (190°C) ensures even cooking without drying it out. If you prefer an even crispier top, you can broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Seafood stuffed salmon is already an eye-catching dish, but there are several ways to elevate its presentation and make it even more impressive.

For an elegant plated presentation, serve the salmon over a bed of sautéed spinach or asparagus, drizzling a light lemon butter sauce over the top. The vibrant green color of the vegetables contrasts beautifully with the golden-baked salmon.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider making individual stuffed salmon roulades. Instead of cutting a pocket, butterfly the salmon fillets, spread the seafood stuffing evenly, then roll them up and bake. This method creates a spiral effect when sliced, making for an elegant and professional-looking dish.

For a casual yet impressive twist, turn this dish into a seafood-stuffed salmon casserole. Lay salmon fillets in a baking dish, spread the seafood stuffing on top, and bake everything together. Serve family-style with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Freezing and Storing Seafood Stuffed Salmon

While fresh seafood stuffed salmon is always best, you can store leftovers properly to maintain its quality and flavor.

If refrigerating, allow the cooked salmon to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 10 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. A microwave can also work, but use low power and add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

For freezing, it’s best to freeze the stuffed salmon before baking. Assemble the salmon with the seafood stuffing, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Healthier Twist Ideas

To make seafood stuffed salmon even healthier without compromising on taste, there are a few modifications you can make.

For a low-fat version, replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This maintains the creamy texture while reducing the calorie count and increasing the protein content. You can also use reduced-fat Parmesan cheese for a lighter option.

If you want to lower the sodium, use fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives instead of Old Bay seasoning. These herbs provide bold flavors without the extra salt. Additionally, opt for fresh crab and shrimp instead of canned seafood, which often contains added sodium.

For a keto-friendly twist, serve the seafood-stuffed salmon over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. This keeps the dish low in carbs while adding extra fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Seafood stuffed salmon is a versatile dish that can be served at different events, from casual family dinners to upscale celebrations.

For a romantic dinner, pair the salmon with a glass of sparkling water and sides like roasted asparagus and garlic mashed cauliflower. The light, delicate flavors make for an intimate and memorable meal.

If you’re serving this dish at a holiday gathering, present the salmon on a large serving platter with a side of wild rice pilaf and honey-glazed carrots. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and parsley for a festive touch.

For a summer barbecue, serve the stuffed salmon alongside a fresh Mediterranean salad and grilled corn on the cob. The refreshing combination of citrus, seafood, and smoky flavors will be a hit with guests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

2. What other seafood can I use in the stuffing?

You can substitute or add lobster, scallops, or even cooked white fish for extra variety.

3. Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, the stuffing can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to use.

4. Can I grill the seafood stuffed salmon instead of baking it?

Yes, but you’ll need to wrap it in foil to prevent the stuffing from falling out. Grill over medium heat for about 15 minutes.

5. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C), and the salmon should flake easily with a fork.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, replace cream cheese with mashed avocado or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

7. What side dishes go well with seafood stuffed salmon?

Lemon butter asparagus, wild rice, roasted potatoes, and fresh garden salads all pair beautifully.

8. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a spicy kick.

9. Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but remove the skin after baking for easier serving.

10. How do I prevent the stuffing from falling out?

Press it gently into the pocket and avoid overfilling. You can also secure it with toothpicks while baking.

Conclusion

Seafood stuffed salmon is a show-stopping dish that combines the richness of salmon with a flavorful seafood stuffing. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or just treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With endless customization options and a perfect balance of flavors, seafood stuffed salmon is a must-try for seafood lovers. So why wait? Try it today and elevate your seafood game to the next level!

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