1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or oven-safe dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg (if using).
- Add the cooked spinach and garlic mixture to the bowl and mix well to combine.
3. Prepare the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make a deep slit in the center of each fillet, creating a pocket for the filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through the salmon.
4. Stuff the Salmon
- Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet, packing it in well.
- Secure the filling with toothpicks if necessary to keep it in place during cooking.
5. Season the Salmon
- Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Bake the Salmon
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the toothpicks from the salmon fillets.
- Serve the stuffed salmon hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Salmon
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best for this recipe. Make sure to cook it down well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks to secure the filling if needed, and remove them before serving.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Variations to Try
- Herb-Crusted: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the filling for added flavor.
- Creamy Dijon: Mix a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the filling for a tangy twist.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for any special occasion. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan lies in the flavorful, creamy filling and properly cooked salmon. By following this guide, you’ll create a gourmet meal that’s both delicious and impressive.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan!