Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Description:
Shrimp stuffed salmon is an elegant and flavorful dish perfect for a dinner party or special weeknight meal. Fresh salmon fillets are slit and filled with a savory, creamy shrimp stuffing made with garlic, herbs, and cheese. The combination of rich salmon and succulent shrimp creates a luxurious seafood entrée.
Prep Time and Cook Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each), skinless, center-cut
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
1 tsp lemon juice
For the Shrimp Stuffing:
1/2 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup shallots or onions, finely diced
1/4 cup celery, finely diced
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning or Cajun spice
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream
Zest of 1/2 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat salmon fillets dry.
Make a slit in the side of each fillet to create a pocket for stuffing.
Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Make the Shrimp Stuffing:
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic, shallots, and celery. Sauté until soft (2–3 min).
Add chopped shrimp and Old Bay/Cajun seasoning. Cook until pink (about 3–4 min).
Remove from heat. Mix in cream cheese, mayo, parsley, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, salt and pepper.
Let it cool slightly so it firms up for stuffing.
4. Stuff the Salmon:
Gently stuff each salmon fillet with 2–3 tablespoons of shrimp mixture.
Place stuffed fillets in baking dish.
5. Bake:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until salmon is flaky and cooked through (internal temp ~145°F / 63°C).
6. Serve:
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Serve with rice, steamed veggies, or a light salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~410 kcal
Protein ~38 g
Total Fat ~24 g
Saturated Fat ~9 g
Carbohydrates ~6 g
Sugar ~1 g
Fiber ~0.5 g
Sodium ~520 mg
Cholesterol ~145 mg
Note: Nutrition values can vary based on exact ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and pat dry both to remove excess water before cooking.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon a few hours in advance. Keep refrigerated and bake when ready to serve.
Q: What side dishes go well with this?
Try garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus, couscous, or a lemon butter pasta.
Q: Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes, but it’s a bit more delicate. Use a fish basket or foil pouch to keep everything intact.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy-free cream cheese and skip Parmesan or use a vegan version.
Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Inter
nal temp should be 145°F (63°C)