Name: Stuffed Salmon with Seafood: The Ultimate Recipe and Guide
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off, your preference; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 lemon, thinly sliced; 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped; 1/2 pound cooked crab meat, picked over for shells; 1/4 cup chopped celery; 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Stuffed Salmon with Seafood: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine flaky, succulent salmon fillets, generously filled with a medley of delectable seafood, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience.

While the exact origins of stuffing fish are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the practice of enriching seafood with flavorful fillings has been a culinary tradition across various cultures for centuries. Coastal communities, in particular, have long embraced the art of combining the ocean's bounty in innovative and delicious ways. This particular recipe for Stuffed Salmon with Seafood elevates that tradition to new heights.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It's the perfect marriage of textures and tastes. The richness of the salmon complements the delicate sweetness of the shrimp, crab, and scallops, all bound together with a creamy, herb-infused sauce. Beyond its exquisite flavor profile, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and elegant dinner parties. The wow factor is undeniable, and your guests will be thoroughly impressed by your culinary prowess. So, let's dive in and create this unforgettable seafood masterpiece together!

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off, your preference
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, thinly sliced

For the Seafood Stuffing:

1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped
1/2 pound cooked crab meat, picked over for shells
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley sprigs
Lemon wedges

Preparing the Seafood Stuffing:

Alright, let's get started with the heart of this dish – the seafood stuffing! This is where all the magic happens, and it's surprisingly easy to put together. Trust me, the aroma alone will have your mouth watering.

Combine the Seafood: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the chopped cooked shrimp and crab meat. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the crab meat in nice, distinct pieces. We don't want mushy stuffing!
Add the Veggies: Add the chopped celery, red bell pepper, and green onions to the bowl. These veggies add a lovely crunch and freshness to the stuffing. The red bell pepper also gives it a nice pop of color.
Sauté the Garlic (Optional): While you can add the minced garlic directly to the bowl, I personally prefer to sauté it lightly in a little olive oil (about 1 teaspoon) over medium-low heat for about a minute, until fragrant. This mellows out the garlic flavor and prevents it from being too overpowering. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the bowl. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it!
Mix in the Wet Ingredients: Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice to the bowl. The mayonnaise acts as a binder and adds richness, while the Dijon mustard and lemon juice provide a tangy counterpoint.
Season Generously: Sprinkle in the Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don't be shy with the Old Bay – it's what gives the stuffing that classic seafood flavor. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Add Breadcrumbs and Parsley: Gently fold in the breadcrumbs and chopped fresh parsley. The breadcrumbs help to absorb any excess moisture and bind the stuffing together. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
Mix Gently: Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix. We want the stuffing to be light and fluffy, not dense and heavy.
Chill (Optional): At this point, you can cover the bowl and refrigerate the stuffing for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This is optional, but it can help the stuffing hold its shape better when you stuff the salmon.

Preparing the Salmon Fillets:

Now that the stuffing is ready, let's turn our attention to the salmon. Choosing good quality salmon is key for this recipe. Look for fillets that are bright in color and have a fresh, clean smell. If you're using skin-on fillets, make sure the skin is shiny and taut.

Pat the Salmon Dry: Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry. This helps them to sear properly and prevents them from steaming in the oven.
Season the Salmon: Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Be sure to season both sides of the fillets, even if you're using skin-on fillets.
Create a Pocket: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each salmon fillet. Start by slicing horizontally along the side of the fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create a pocket that's large enough to hold a generous amount of stuffing. If you're using skin-on fillets, you can cut the pocket from the flesh side, leaving the skin intact.

Stuffing and Baking the Salmon:

This is where the magic truly happens! We're going to stuff those salmon fillets with our delicious seafood mixture and bake them to perfection. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this process is simply divine.

Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the seafood stuffing into the pockets you created in the salmon fillets. Pack the stuffing in firmly, but be careful not to overstuff them. You want the salmon to be able to close properly.
Secure with Toothpicks (Optional): If you're worried about the stuffing falling out during baking, you can secure the pockets with toothpicks. Simply insert the toothpicks through the salmon and stuffing to hold everything in place. Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving!
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the salmon from sticking to the dish.
Arrange the Salmon: Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. If you have any leftover stuffing, you can spoon it around the salmon fillets in the dish.
Add Lemon Slices (Optional): Arrange thin slices of lemon on top of the salmon fillets. The lemon will infuse the salmon with a bright, citrusy flavor.
Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the stuffing is heated through. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Broil (Optional): For a golden-brown crust, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch it carefully to prevent it from burning.

Serving and Garnishing:

The moment we've all been waiting for! It's time to serve up this masterpiece. The presentation is just as important as the taste, so let's make it look as good as it tastes.

Remove from Oven: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish: Garnish the salmon with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Serve: Serve the stuffed salmon immediately. It's delicious on its own, or you can serve it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or quinoa.

Tips and Variations:

Type of Seafood: Feel free to experiment with different types of seafood in the stuffing. You can add scallops, mussels, or even lobster.
Breadcrumb Options: Panko breadcrumbs will give the stuffing a crispier texture, while regular breadcrumbs will make it softer.
Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables to the stuffing, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning to your liking. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little extra heat.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs perfectly with this dish.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for stuffed salmon with seafood as much as I do! It's a show-stopping dish that's perfect for special occasions or any time you want to impress your guests. Bon appétit!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Stuffed Salmon with Seafood recipe isn't just a meal; it's an experience. It's a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling utterly satisfied. From the flaky, succulent salmon to the rich and savory seafood stuffing, every bite is a celebration of culinary delight. I truly believe this is a must-try dish for anyone who appreciates good food and loves to impress. But why is it a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it's surprisingly easy to make. Don't let the "stuffed" part intimidate you. The steps are straightforward, and the result is a restaurant-quality dish you can proudly serve at home. It's perfect for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or even just a weekend treat when you want something a little extra special. Plus, it's packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and delicious choice. Now, let's talk about serving suggestions and variations. I personally love serving this Stuffed Salmon with Seafood alongside a bed of fluffy quinoa or wild rice. The grains provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the salmon and stuffing. Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli are also excellent vegetable pairings, adding a touch of freshness and color to the plate. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving brightens everything up beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, you can easily adapt this recipe to your own preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seafood stuffing. If you're not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute it with scallops or even lobster for an extra decadent touch. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices in the stuffing. Fresh dill, parsley, or chives would all be delicious additions. Consider adding a touch of parmesan cheese to the stuffing for an extra layer of flavor. Another variation I've tried and loved is using a different type of fish altogether. While salmon is my go-to, this stuffing would also be fantastic with cod, halibut, or even sea bass. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different types of fish will cook at different rates. I'm so confident that you'll love this recipe, and I can't wait to hear about your experiences. Don't be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it. Cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so relax, experiment, and most importantly, have a good time! So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and prepare to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won't regret it. Once you've tried this Stuffed Salmon with Seafood, I have a feeling it will become a regular on your dinner rotation. And please, please, please share your creations with me! I'd love to see your photos, hear about your variations, and read your reviews. You can tag me on social media or leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you'll love. Happy cooking!