Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan

### Instructions

#### 1. **Prepare the Spinach & Parmesan Stuffing:**
– Start by heating a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until wilted. Once the spinach has cooked down, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
– In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and the cooked spinach. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the stuffing aside.

#### 2. **Prepare the Salmon:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Use a sharp knife to carefully create a pocket in each salmon fillet. Hold the fillet steady with one hand and slice through the middle horizontally, creating a deep slit without cutting all the way through.
– Stuff each salmon fillet with the spinach and Parmesan mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed. You may want to pack the stuffing in tightly so it stays in place while cooking.

#### 3. **Blacken the Salmon:**
– Rub the salmon fillets with blackened seasoning on all sides. Make sure each fillet is coated evenly for a bold, flavorful crust.
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if the skin is left on, and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice blackened crust forms.
– After searing the salmon on both sides, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s done.

#### 4. **Serve:**
– Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two.
– Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
– Serve the stuffed salmon alongside your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

### Tips and Variations

– **Homemade blackened seasoning:** If you want to make your own blackened seasoning, simply combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
– **Use frozen spinach:** If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the stuffing.
– **Add a little extra creaminess:** For an even richer stuffing, you can add a tablespoon of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the spinach mixture.
– **Grill the salmon:** If you prefer to grill the salmon, you can season and stuff the fillets, then grill them over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish.

### Why Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a Winner

**Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan** is a showstopper of a dish that combines rich, smoky flavors with a creamy, savory stuffing. The blackened seasoning adds a perfect contrast to the tender salmon, while the spinach and Parmesan filling brings richness and depth. It’s healthy, indulgent, and absolutely satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a restaurant-worthy dish to impress guests or a simple, elegant weeknight dinner, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for any occasion.

### Final Thoughts

If you’re a fan of salmon and are looking for a way to elevate this healthy, delicious fish, **Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan** should be at the top of your list. With its smoky, flavorful crust and creamy spinach stuffing, it’s a meal that’s both impressive and easy to make. Packed with nutrients and bold flavors, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a restaurant-quality meal at home, give this **Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan** a try. It’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire!