🍣 Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan (Mediterranean Style)

This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is bold, juicy, and packed with flavor. The outside has a smoky, slightly spicy blackened crust, while the inside is filled with a creamy spinach–Parmesan mixture that keeps the salmon tender and rich.

It’s high-protein, low-carb, and full of heart-healthy fats — a perfect Mediterranean-style dinner that feels restaurant-quality but is easy to make at home 💚

🌿 Why It’s Mediterranean-Inspired

This recipe follows Mediterranean principles:

Fresh salmon (rich in omega-3s)
Extra virgin olive oil
Garlic & herbs
Leafy greens (spinach)
Moderate, flavorful cheese
Simple whole ingredients

Balanced, nourishing, and full of bold flavor.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)

🐟 For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
2 tbsp olive oil

🔥 Blackening Seasoning:

1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

🥬 Spinach Parmesan Filling:

1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese or Greek yogurt
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch salt & pepper

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a small pan.
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes).
Remove from heat and mix with Parmesan and cream cheese (or yogurt).
Season lightly and set aside.

2️⃣ Prepare the Salmon

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket in the side of each salmon fillet (do not cut all the way through).

3️⃣ Stuff the Salmon

Spoon spinach mixture evenly into each pocket.

4️⃣ Season

Mix blackening spices together.
Rub olive oil over salmon, then coat generously with seasoning on both sides.

5️⃣ Cook

Option 1: Pan-Sear (Best Crust)

Heat skillet over medium-high.
Cook salmon 4–5 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.

Option 2: Oven-Bake

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

✔ Serve with roasted vegetables
✔ Pair with lemon herb quinoa
✔ Add a fresh cucumber tomato salad
✔ Drizzle with a squeeze of fresh lemon

🥗 Nutrition Highlights

High in protein
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Low carb & keto-friendly
Anti-inflammatory ingredients
Mediterranean diet approved

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

Q2: Is it very spicy?

It has mild heat. Reduce cayenne for a milder flavor.

Q3: Can I air fry it?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Q4: Can I replace Parmesan?

You can use feta or mozzarella instead.

Q5: How do I know when salmon is done?

It flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Q6: Can I meal prep this?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum juiciness.