Crab Stuffed Salmon

Crab Stuffed Salmon

Crab stuffed salmon is a dish that brings together the delicate flavors of fresh salmon and sweet, succulent crab meat, creating a culinary masterpiece that is both elegant and comforting.

This recipe features salmon fillets generously filled with a flavorful crab mixture, baked to perfection for a meal that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or even a cozy family dinner, crab stuffed salmon will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Introduction

Salmon is renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and health benefits, packed with omega-3 fatty acids that are great for heart health. When you combine salmon with crab, you create a dish that not only highlights the natural sweetness of the seafood but also offers a delightful textural contrast.

The stuffing adds a layer of complexity, enhanced by the aromatic herbs and spices. This dish is often served with a light sauce or fresh vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal. Let’s dive into this gourmet recipe that’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers restaurant-quality results.

Ingredients

For the Crab Stuffing:

• 1 cup fresh crab meat (or canned, drained and flaked)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin removed)
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley), for garnish

How to Make Crab Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Stuffing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Gently fold the ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much. Set the crab stuffing aside while you prepare the salmon.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature allows the salmon to cook evenly while keeping it moist.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each salmon fillet by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Lightly season the outside and inside of the pockets with salt and black pepper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the fillets for added flavor.

Step 4: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon a generous amount of the crab stuffing into each salmon pocket, pressing it gently to ensure it is securely filled.

Place the stuffed salmon fillets in a greased baking dish, seam side up. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top of the fillets to help them brown during cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Bake the stuffed salmon in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

If desired, you can broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to achieve a golden, slightly crispy top.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the fish.

Serve the crab stuffed salmon with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh herbs. Pair it with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Chef’s Note

Fresh crab meat is highly recommended for the best flavor, but if unavailable, high-quality canned crab meat can be used as a substitute.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the stuffing. Creamy goat cheese or a sharp cheddar can add a unique twist to the dish.

If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes to the crab mixture.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 1 fillet)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 480mg

Crab stuffed salmon is a show-stopping dish that combines the best of land and sea. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a standout on any dinner table. With this recipe, you can easily create a meal that feels luxurious but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Enjoy the harmony of flavors and textures in every bite, and delight in the praise from family and friends as they savor this delectable dish!

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