01 -
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's perfectly hot when your stuffed salmon is ready to bake. While the oven heats up, grab your ingredients and get ready for a culinary adventure!
02 -
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add those minced garlic cloves and let them sizzle for about a minute until they release their amazing aroma. Then toss in your chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down beautifully. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the rest of your stuffing.
03 -
In a mixing bowl, combine your wilted spinach with the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs (if using for that delightful crunch). Mix everything together until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy, cheesy mixture is what makes this dish so special!
04 -
Take each salmon fillet and carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the side, being careful not to slice all the way through. You're creating a little pouch to hold all that delicious stuffing! Season both the outside and inside of each fillet with a bit of salt and pepper.
05 -
Now for the fun part! Gently spoon your spinach and cheese mixture into each salmon pocket, pressing it in lightly to fill the cavity. Don't worry if some stuffing peeks out - that just adds to the presentation when it's all melty and delicious after baking!
06 -
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place your stuffed salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin begins to crisp. Then carefully flip each fillet and transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through to perfection.
07 -
Transfer your beautiful stuffed salmon fillets to serving plates. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top - that bright citrus flavor perfectly complements the rich, creamy stuffing and tender salmon. Serve immediately while it's hot and enjoy this restaurant-worthy meal right in your own home!