Crab Stuffed Salmon
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Elevate your dinner with this Crab Stuffed Salmon recipe, featuring succulent salmon fillets filled with a rich and creamy crab mixture. Perfectly baked to perfection, this elegant seafood dish combines flavors that impress while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Ideal for special occasions or a fancy weeknight meal, serve it with your favorite sides for a delightful dining experience.
This Crab Stuffed Salmon is the perfect dish to impress your guests while being easy enough for a home cook to prepare. The filling made from crab meat, cream cheese, and herbs complements the salmon beautifully.
A Perfect Seafood Delight
Crab Stuffed Salmon is a delightful combination of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the coast. The rich, creamy crab filling perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon, creating a memorable dining experience. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet notes, enhanced by the freshness of the lemon and the zesty kick of Old Bay seasoning. This dish stands out not only for its taste but also for its presentation, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties or special celebrations.
Additionally, this recipe is wonderfully versatile—pair it with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal. Whether you opt for a light salad, steamed vegetables, or fluffy rice, the flavors of the Crab Stuffed Salmon can seamlessly integrate with a variety of accompaniments. It’s a dish that can elevate any meal, making it just as suitable for a fancy occasion as it is for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Health Benefits of Salmon and Crab
Beyond its delicious taste, Crab Stuffed Salmon is packed with health benefits. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy properties. These essential fats can improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and even promote brain function. Paired with the protein-rich crab meat, this dish provides a powerful nutritional boost that keeps you feeling satisfied and energized.
Crab meat is also a low-calorie protein source, brimming with vitamins and minerals. It contains ample vitamin B12, which supports nerve function and red blood cell production, as well as selenium, which acts as an antioxidant. Together, these ingredients make a dish that not only pleases the palate but also supports your overall well-being.
Ingredients
For the Crab Filling
- 1 cup crab meat, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
Make sure to use fresh crab meat for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Crab Filling
In a bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully integrated.
Prepare the Salmon
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Using a sharp knife, make an incision in each fillet to create a pocket for the filling.
Stuff the Salmon
Stuff each salmon pocket with the crab mixture, pressing gently to secure the filling. Drizzle with olive oil and place the salmon on a baking sheet.
Bake the Salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
Serve
Remove from the oven and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Pair the dish with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Success
To ensure your Salmon stays moist and tender, it’s important to monitor the cooking time closely. Every oven is different, and factors like the thickness of your fillets can affect cooking time. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. If it flakes easily, it’s ready to enjoy!
Another key tip is to use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to crab meat. Fresh crab will provide a sweeter and more delicate flavor compared to canned options. If using canned crab, make sure to drain it well and check for any shell pieces. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the overall outcome of your dish.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Crab Stuffed Salmon, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an added pop of color and flavor. A simple side salad drizzled with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon, or you can opt for roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a heartier pairing.
For a complete meal, serve the salmon with a side of creamy garlic mashed potatoes or wild rice, which can soak up the delicious juices from the fish. Accompany your dish with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to enhance the meal’s flavors and make your dining experience truly special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen crab meat?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
→ What sides go well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables or a light salad complement this dish wonderfully.
Crab Stuffed Salmon
Elevate your dinner with this Crab Stuffed Salmon recipe, featuring succulent salmon fillets filled with a rich and creamy crab mixture. Perfectly baked to perfection, this elegant seafood dish combines flavors that impress while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Ideal for special occasions or a fancy weeknight meal, serve it with your favorite sides for a delightful dining experience.
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Crab Filling
- 1 cup crab meat, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully integrated.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Using a sharp knife, make an incision in each fillet to create a pocket for the filling.
Stuff each salmon pocket with the crab mixture, pressing gently to secure the filling. Drizzle with olive oil and place the salmon on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
Remove from the oven and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 28g