This stuffed salmon with crab meat is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a festive meal. The rich, tender salmon is stuffed with a flavorful crab mixture, seasoned with spices, and topped with a buttery, herbed sauce that brings everything together. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with the sweetness of crab, making for a mouthwatering, indulgent dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family or entertaining guests, this dish will surely impress.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Lemon pepper, to taste
- Cajun spice, to taste
- Smoked paprika, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 450 g (16 oz) crab meat (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp mustard
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
-
Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season them with lemon pepper, Cajun spice, smoked paprika, and salt. Set the salmon aside to marinate for a few minutes while you prepare the crab mixture.
-
Prepare the Crab Stuffing:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, hot sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Gently fold in the crab meat and panko breadcrumbs. Be careful not to break the crab meat into too small pieces. The mixture should be moist but not too runny.
-
Stuff the Salmon:
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Carefully stuff each salmon fillet with the crab mixture, pressing it gently to ensure the filling stays inside the fillet. You can either make a small slit in the fillet or leave it whole and mound the filling on top.
-
Bake the Salmon:
- Bake the stuffed salmon in the preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crab stuffing is golden and slightly crispy on top.
-
Prepare the Butter Sauce:
- While the salmon is baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the chopped parsley and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Serve:
- Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle the melted butter sauce over the top.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy this rich, flavorful dish!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Vitamin C: 15mg
The Origins and Popularity of Stuffed Salmon
Salmon is a popular fish in many cuisines, particularly in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. It is known for its rich, buttery flavor and high nutritional value, providing an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Stuffed salmon has become a popular dish because it combines the rich taste of salmon with the sweetness and tenderness of seafood stuffing, often made with crab or shrimp.
The use of crab as a stuffing is commonly associated with coastal cuisine, especially in regions like the Eastern United States, the Mediterranean, and parts of Southeast Asia, where fresh seafood is abundant. The combination of crab and salmon in this dish elevates the flavors, offering a luxurious meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With its delicate textures and delicious taste, stuffed salmon with crab meat is an excellent choice for a special meal or dinner party.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed salmon with crab meat is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the crab stuffing, which is enhanced with spices like Cajun and Old Bay seasoning. The creamy mayonnaise and mustard base bind the filling together, while the panko breadcrumbs provide a subtle crunch. The buttery sauce with fresh parsley adds a fragrant finishing touch that brings the entire dish together. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking for a delicious dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Health Benefits of Stuffed Salmon with Crab Meat
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation. The addition of crab meat provides extra protein, along with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. The mayonnaise adds creaminess but can be swapped with a lighter version or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. This dish is rich in healthy fats and protein, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or sweet potatoes, for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- For a more indulgent meal, serve with mashed potatoes or risotto.
- Add a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the rich flavors of the salmon and crab.
Tips
- If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of hot sauce or add some chili flakes to the crab mixture.
- To make this dish even more luxurious, top the stuffed salmon with a drizzle of hollandaise sauce after baking.
- If you can’t find fresh crab meat, you can substitute with canned crab or even shrimp for a different flavor.
- Be sure to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences. If you prefer a tangy finish, feel free to add a little more lemon juice to the crab mixture.
Variations to Try
- Garlic Herb Stuffing: Add garlic, thyme, or dill to the crab mixture for a more herbaceous flavor.
- Cheese-Stuffed Salmon: Incorporate cream cheese or goat cheese into the stuffing for a creamy, tangy twist.
- Vegetarian Stuffing: For a non-seafood option, swap the crab for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Stuffed salmon with crab meat is a delightful and elegant dish that combines the rich flavors of seafood with the tenderness of baked salmon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion, a dinner party, or any time you want to treat yourself to something luxurious yet simple to prepare. The crispy, golden topping, creamy stuffing, and buttery sauce make this dish truly irresistible. Whether you choose to serve it with a side of vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab stuffing and stuff the salmon ahead of time. Store the stuffed salmon in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to bake it fresh before serving.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
Can I use other seafood instead of crab?
Yes, you can substitute crab with shrimp, scallops, or even lobster for a different flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently in the oven to preserve the texture.
Can I make this dish without cheese?
Yes, you can make the stuffed salmon without cheese for a lighter version. Simply omit the cheese and increase the amount of seasoning for added flavor.