Name: Quick Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon for a Delightful Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Salmon (4-6 Ounce Pieces); 1 cup Cream Cheese (softened); 1 cup Fresh Spinach (chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (mashed); ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated); ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Paprika

Introduction to Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Why Quick Broiled Salmon is a Game-Changer for Busy Professionals

If you're juggling a demanding job and a social life, finding time to whip up a nutritious dinner can feel daunting. Enter quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon, your new culinary hero! This dish is perfect for busy professionals who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Broiling salmon not only cooks the fish quickly but also gives it a delightful crispy exterior, ensuring your dinner is impressive—all in less than 30 minutes. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great choice for brain health, and pairing it with a creamy spinach filling elevates it to another level. You can easily use fresh or frozen spinach, and everyone can appreciate how easy it is to follow the recipe step by step.

Imagine coming home after a long day, and within a few simple steps, your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas. It’s like a mini culinary adventure right in your home! Plus, this dish is great for impressing guests during a dinner party or simply treating yourself after a hectic week.

Ready to dive into this flavorful experience? Let’s get cooking! For a handy guide on healthy meal prep, check out this great article by Healthline.

Ingredients for Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal in a flash, having the right ingredients is key. For this quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon, you’ll want to gather the following:

Salmon Fillets: 4 pieces, weighing between 4-6 ounces each. Look for skin-on fillets for added flavor.
Cream Cheese: 1 cup, softened. This is the heart of your creamy filling—go for full-fat for the best taste!
Fresh Spinach: 1 cup, finely chopped. Not only does it add color, but it's also packed with nutrients.
Garlic: 2 cloves, mashed. Garlic lovers rejoice—this will infuse your dish with aromatic goodness.
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated. Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged.
Ground Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon. A pinch of pepper can elevate all the flavors and provide just the right kick.
Paprika: 1 teaspoon. This spice adds a subtle warmth and a beautiful color to the dish.

For more inspiration and tips on how to select fresh ingredients, check out this article on Seasonal Produce. With these ingredients in hand, you are well on your way to a delightful dinner that’s guaranteed to impress!

Preparing Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially on busy weeknights, but we all crave something delicious and healthy. This quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon recipe is not only straightforward to prepare, but it's also packed with flavor and nutrients. Let’s break it down into a series of easy steps that will transform your dinner into an impressive culinary experience.

Prepare the salmon

Begin your culinary journey by selecting four pieces of fresh salmon, ideally between 4-6 ounces each. Using a sharp knife, cut slits or pockets in each piece of salmon, about three-quarters of the way through. This is where the magic happens—the pockets will hold a creamy filling that turns your salmon into an incredible main dish. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you don’t want your filling escaping! For more tips on selecting salmon, check out this guide from the Seafood Nutrition Partnership.

Make the creamy spinach filling

Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the spinach filling. In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of softened cream cheese, one cup of chopped fresh spinach, two cloves of mashed garlic, and half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add a dash of ground black pepper for seasoning. If your cream cheese isn’t soft enough, a quick 20-second zap in the microwave can make the mixing process much easier. This filling not only tastes delightful but also helps you sneak in those greens!

Stuff the salmon pockets

With your filling ready, it’s time for some fun! Generously stuff the creamy spinach mixture into the pockets of each salmon piece. Don’t be shy—pack in as much filling as you can! The more, the merrier, as it will keep your salmon moist and flavorful while it cooks.

Season the stuffed salmon

Once your salmon is stuffed and looking glorious, let's enhance its flavor profile. In a small bowl, mix together one teaspoon of paprika, a dash of garlic powder, and a hint of cumin. Sprinkle this seasoned mix over the top of each stuffed salmon piece. This step not only adds flavor but also gives your dish a beautiful color and aroma that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly.

Broil to perfection

All that’s left is to broil your creations! Preheat your broiler and place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Broil for about 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is perfectly cooked and flaky. It's best to watch it carefully, as broiling can vary by oven. After cooking, let your salmon rest for a minute before serving—this will allow the delicious juices to stay locked in.

Enjoy your quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon with a side of your favorite veggies or a fresh salad. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy dose of protein and greens, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!

Variations on Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

When it comes to quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon, the flavor possibilities are endless. Here are two fun variations to shake things up in your kitchen.

Creamy Spinach and Feta Stuffed Salmon

For a delightful Mediterranean twist to your salmon, try adding feta cheese. Simply swap half of the cream cheese in the filling for crumbled feta. Not only does this give your dish a tangy punch, but the feta complements the spinach beautifully. Serve with a side of couscous or a light salad for a complete meal and a splash of summer.

Spicy Stuffed Salmon with Jalapeños

If you’re looking for a kick, you can easily rev up the heat! Add finely chopped jalapeños to the spinach filling for a spicy update. This variation pairs well with a refreshing mango salsa or some cilantro lime rice. The combination of creamy, spicy, and flavorful will surely impress your dinner guests!

These variations make the quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon recipe not only easy to prepare but also fun to customize. Enjoy exploring different flavors and ingredients! For more salmon inspiration, check out Seafood Nutrition Partnership for great health benefits of including fish in your diet.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

When preparing your quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon, here are some handy tips to elevate your cooking experience:

Salmon Selection: Fresh salmon will yield the best results. Look for bright, vibrant color and avoid any fish that looks dull or has an off-putting smell.
Cream Cheese Tip: If your cream cheese is too firm, pop it in the microwave for 20 seconds until soft. This makes mixing easier and ensures a creamy filling.
Stuffing Technique: Don’t be afraid to pack that filling into the salmon! The more, the merrier when it comes to that delicious creamy spinach stuffing.
Perfecting the Broil: Keep an eye on your salmon while it's broiling. Each oven is different, so check for doneness after about 6-8 minutes; you want that beautiful golden crust without overcooking.

For more on cooking techniques, you might find Serious Eats resourceful. Enjoy your cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

When you're ready to serve your quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon, think about how to elevate the dish even further. Pair it with a light, refreshing side like a crisp cucumber salad—perfect for cutting through the richness of the creamy filling. A side of garlic roasted asparagus is another delightful option, as the earthy flavors complement the salmon beautifully.

For an added touch, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. These grains provide a healthy base and soak up any delicious juices from the salmon. Finally, a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top can brighten up the dish and enhance its natural flavors. Pair your meal with a zesty sparkling water with a hint of citrus for a refreshing drink option!

For more inspiration about salmon dishes, check out this Salmon Nutrition Guide for health benefits.

Time Breakdown for Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready for this quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon will take about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the spinach, mixing your filling, and preparing the salmon fillets. It’s a great way to ease into your cooking session!

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, the actual cooking will take approximately 10 minutes. You'll be broiling the salmon until perfectly cooked, ensuring that delightful filling is warm and gooey. Easy and efficient!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. That’s right—just over half an hour for a scrumptious meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this time is well spent in the kitchen!

If you want more helpful cooking tips or ingredient swaps, check out this guide on how to cook salmon. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

When you're in need of a delectable yet nutritious dish, quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon often hits the spot! Here's a quick glance at the nutritional benefits:

Calories

This delightful dish packs about 450 calories per serving, making it a hearty yet healthy option for dinner.

Protein

You'll get a solid 40 grams of protein from this creamy salmon, which is fantastic for muscle repair and overall health. Great news for anyone active or looking to boost their diet!

Sodium

Each serving contains approximately 600 mg of sodium. While it’s important to watch your sodium intake, savoring this rich dish in moderation allows you to indulge without guilt.

For reliable nutritional information, check out resources like USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive data. Keep your health goals in mind, and enjoy every flavorful bite of this quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon!

FAQs about Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Can I prepare the spinach filling in advance?

Absolutely! The filling for your quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon can be made a day ahead of time. Just mix together the cream cheese, spinach, and other ingredients, then store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, dinner time becomes a breeze as you can just stuff your salmon and broil it!

What's the best way to ensure my salmon stays juicy?

Keeping your salmon juicy is all about timing and temperature! Aim for a cooking time of around 8-10 minutes under the broiler. You want to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness. The rule of thumb is to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Are there other vegetables I can add to the filling?

Certainly! Feel free to enhance your filling with a variety of veggies. Some great options include sautéed mushrooms, artichokes, or even roasted red peppers. Adding herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the flavor even more!

For more tips on cooking fish, check out this guide from The USDA!

Conclusion on Quick-Broiled Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon

In just a few simple steps, you can create this quick-broiled creamy spinach stuffed salmon, which is not only flavorful but also nutritious. Pair it with a garden salad or quinoa for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

For additional tips on preparing salmon, check out Seafood Nutrition for insights on benefits and cooking techniques.