This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a stunning dish, showcasing the perfect combination of delicate salmon, tender shrimp, and savory crab. The stuffing creates a luxurious and rich filling that pairs beautifully with the fresh salmon.
This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home. The seafood stuffing gives the salmon a gourmet touch, while the lemon and parsley garnish add a fresh pop of flavor. It’s a sophisticated yet simple dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 lb crab meat, drained and shredded
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Make a slit along the side of each salmon fillet to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each salmon fillet with the seafood mixture, packing it tightly.
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed fillets for a crunchy topping.
- Bake the salmon for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Luxurious Seafood Delight
Crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is a flavorful and elegant dish that is sure to impress. Combining the rich taste of wild-caught salmon with the luxurious stuffing made of jumbo lump crab and shrimp, this meal offers an irresistible mix of seafood flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this dish takes relatively little time to prepare but delivers a gourmet experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, crab and shrimp stuffed salmon will elevate your meal with its vibrant and delectable presentation.
A Flavorful Seafood Symphony
The star of this dish is the creamy stuffing, which combines fresh crab meat, succulent shrimp, and a mix of seasonings, making it flavorful and moist. The cream cheese in the stuffing adds richness, while the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses lend a satisfying depth of flavor. Paprika, Old Bay, and other seasonings create a delicious balance of savory notes that bring the stuffing together. The stuffing is placed inside the salmon fillets, and the dish is baked to perfection. Broiling the salmon at the end gives the dish a crispy, golden top, which contrasts beautifully with the tender fish and stuffing inside.
Salmon: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Salmon is known for being an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. These healthy fats not only provide nutritional value but also help the dish remain moist and tender throughout the cooking process. The combination of shrimp and crab in this dish increases its protein content, making it a satisfying and filling option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, yet indulgent meal. Serving this dish with a side of vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes will provide a well-rounded meal that is both nutritious and delicious.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Salmon
When preparing stuffed salmon, it’s important to choose fresh, wild-caught salmon fillets. Wild salmon has a more pronounced flavor compared to farmed salmon and is often considered healthier due to its higher omega-3 content. Be sure to carefully cut a slit into the salmon fillets to create pockets for the stuffing without cutting all the way through. This ensures that the stuffing stays securely inside the fish while cooking.
Additionally, par-cooking the shrimp before adding them to the stuffing is a great way to ensure the seafood is cooked properly and doesn’t become overcooked when baked. While the shrimp are sautéed, they should just be browned and not fully cooked. This technique helps preserve the tender texture of the shrimp when it bakes inside the salmon.
For an added crunch, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs over the salmon before broiling it. This will create a crispy crust that contrasts with the soft and creamy interior of the stuffed fillets. Fresh herbs like parsley are a great way to finish the dish and add a burst of color and freshness.
Why Choose Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon?
One of the standout features of crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is its versatility. You can serve this dish on a weeknight for a simple dinner or make it for a dinner party where you want to impress your guests. The combination of seafood is not only luxurious but also offers a variety of textures that complement each other perfectly. The rich crab meat pairs well with the delicate shrimp, while the creamy stuffing elevates the entire dish.
Additionally, stuffed salmon is an excellent choice for those who enjoy seafood but want to avoid the hassle of cooking individual seafood dishes. By stuffing the salmon, you can enjoy the flavors of crab and shrimp all in one bite, making it a satisfying and convenient option for seafood lovers.
Pairing Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on your preferences. For a lighter meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or a mixed salad. If you prefer something heartier, mashed potatoes or a pilaf of rice would make a perfect accompaniment. A crisp, white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the richness of the salmon and seafood stuffing, balancing the flavors beautifully.
For a more casual option, serve this dish with a simple steamed vegetable medley or a light potato salad for a balanced meal that can be enjoyed on a weeknight.
The Perfect Dish for Special Occasions
Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or hosting a dinner party, crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is a dish that’s sure to make an impact. Not only does it look impressive on the plate, but the combination of fresh seafood, creamy stuffing, and delicate salmon will delight your guests. The ease of preparation ensures that it can be made even by novice cooks, and the end result will have everyone asking for the recipe.
The flavors of crab, shrimp, and salmon all come together in a dish that’s both luxurious and approachable. It’s an excellent choice for any occasion where you want to enjoy seafood without the fuss of individual seafood dishes. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe proves that you can create a gourmet meal in no time.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Making
In conclusion, crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is an elegant, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender salmon, succulent shrimp, and rich crab stuffing creates a luxurious seafood dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. With a few simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, you can create a meal that will impress your guests and leave you with a feeling of culinary accomplishment.
This recipe is not just about flavor—it’s also about creating a dining experience that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a delicious seafood dinner, crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is a dish that will never disappoint. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a gourmet seafood feast right in your own kitchen.