Med Creamy Spinach & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Prep Time: 20 minutes · Cook Time: 20–25 minutes · Total Time: 40–45 minutes · Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  For the Creamy Spinach & Shrimp Filling
• 8 oz medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  For the Mediterranean Lemon Butter Sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup chicken broth or seafood stock
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
  Instructions
  Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
3. Carefully cut a deep pocket into the side of each fillet, taking care not to cut all the way through.
4. Rub the salmon with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
   Step 2: Make the Creamy Shrimp Filling
5. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, until they begin turning pink and opaque.
8. Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until wilted and excess moisture has evaporated.
9. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
10. Mix until creamy, then stir in the parsley. Remove from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.
    Step 3: Stuff the Salmon
11. Divide the creamy spinach and shrimp filling evenly among the four salmon fillets.
12. Spoon the filling into each pocket without overfilling.
13. If necessary, secure the openings with toothpicks.
    Step 4: Bake
14. Place the stuffed salmon in a lightly greased baking dish.
15. Bake for 15–22 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
16. Check the thickest part of the salmon with a food thermometer. Salmon should reach 145°F (63°C), and the shrimp filling should be thoroughly cooked.
17. If desired, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a lightly golden top, watching carefully.
    Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
18. While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat.
19. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
20. Stir in the lemon juice and broth.
21. Add the optional capers and sun-dried tomatoes.
22. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, then stir in the fresh parsley.
    Step 6: Serve
23. Transfer the stuffed salmon to serving plates.
24. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the salmon.
25. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and a little extra Parmesan if desired.
    Serve warm with roasted asparagus, Mediterranean vegetables, a Greek salad, or cauliflower rice.
    Nutrition Information
    Estimated per serving, assuming four equal portions and including the sauce.

• Calories: 480–560 kcal
• Protein: 42–50 g
• Carbohydrates: 5–9 g
• Fat: 30–37 g
• Saturated Fat: 11–15 g
• Fiber: 1–2 g
• Sugar: 2–4 g
• Sodium: 550–850 mg
  Nutrition values vary with salmon size, shrimp quantity, cheese brands, and added salt.
  Recipe Notes
• For extra creaminess: Add 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream to the filling.
• For a Mediterranean flavor: Include sun-dried tomatoes, capers, oregano, and fresh lemon.
• For a lighter version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and reduce the butter in the sauce.
• For meal prep: Prepare the filling ahead and refrigerate it separately for up to 24 hours. Stuff the salmon shortly before cooking.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours and consume within 3 days. Reheat gently to 165°F (74°C).
  Q&A
  Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before seasoning and stuffing.

Q2: Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw, peel, and devein the shrimp first. Remove excess moisture before cooking the filling.

Q3: Can I substitute mozzarella for Parmesan?

Yes. Mozzarella creates a milder, stretchier filling, while Parmesan provides a saltier, nuttier flavor.

Q4: Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

Yes. Soft goat cheese or a thick ricotta can work. Ricotta may create a softer filling, so drain it first.

Q5: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Avoid overfilling the pockets, leave enough salmon around the edges, and secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.

Q6: What side dishes pair well with stuffed salmon?

Roasted asparagus, lemon rice, Greek salad, garlic green beans, zucchini, or roasted potatoes are excellent choices.

Q7: Is this recipe keto-friendly?

It can fit a low-carbohydrate eating plan. The estimated carbohydrate content is relatively low, but exact values depend on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Q8: Is this recipe gluten-free?

The listed ingredients can be gluten-free. Check the labels on broth, seasonings, and other packaged ingredients to confirm.

Q9: Can I prepare it in an air fryer?

Yes. Cook in a preheated air fryer at approximately 375°F (190°C) for 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness and filling amount. Verify that the center reaches 145°F (63°C).

Q10: Can I use another seafood option?

Small pieces of cooked crab or finely chopped scallops can replace the shrimp. Adjust cooking as needed to ensure the seafood is fully cooked.

Q11: Does this recipe contain nuts?

No tree nuts or peanuts are required in the recipe. Parmesan and cream cheese are dairy products, not nuts. Check product labels for allergen and cross-contact information.

Q12: Can I make the dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, a suitable dairy-free Parmesan alternative, and plant-based butter. Check that all substitutes are suitable for your dietary needs.