Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan

Ingredients:

Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat a small pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
   • Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
   • In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
   • Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
   • Stuff each salmon fillet with the spinach and cheese mixture.
3. Season the Salmon:
   • In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
   • Rub the spice mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
4. Cook the Salmon:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down if they have skin. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
   • Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the lemon juice and cook for about 1 minute.
6. Serve:
   • Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the blackened stuffed salmon.
   • Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Enjoy your delicious Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan!