Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both impressive and healthy? Look no further! This salmon stuffed with crab meat recipe is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends. This delicious dish is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, combining the richness of salmon with the delicate sweetness of crab. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Crab Filling: In a medium bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chives, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab meat mushy.
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Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. If using skin-on fillets, score the skin in a few places to prevent curling during cooking. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.
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Stuff the Salmon: Create a slit lengthwise down the center of each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently open the slit and spoon the crab mixture evenly into the cavity of each fillet.
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Sear and Bake: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
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Finish in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
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Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired. This easy recipe pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Use high-quality crab meat: The flavor of the crab meat significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish. Opt for lump crab meat for the best results.
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, lemon juice, or Dijon mustard to suit your preferences.
- Add some herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of dill or parsley to the crab filling.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crab filling for a little heat.
- Creamy filling: Stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or crème fraîche to the crab filling for a richer texture.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the salmon before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This salmon stuffed with crab meat recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and elegant dish that's perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. Enjoy!