Lemon Garlic Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon

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Introduction

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon is a decadent, flavorful dish that brings together the richness of salmon, the succulence of shrimp, and the brightness of lemon and garlic. It’s elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a home cook. The stuffing is creamy, garlicky, and brimming with buttery shrimp — the perfect contrast to tender, flaky salmon fillets.

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🧾 Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, 6–8 oz each)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon (for zest and juice)

For the Shrimp Stuffing:

• ½ lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Butterfly the salmon fillets by slicing a pocket horizontally into the thickest part of each fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Season the salmon inside and out with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.

Step 2: Make the Shrimp Stuffing

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until just pink.
4. Add lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and remove from heat.
5. Transfer shrimp mixture to a bowl and let cool for a few minutes.
6. Mix in cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Salmon

1. Spoon the shrimp mixture into the slits you made in the salmon.
2. Press the stuffing down gently so it stays in place.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the salmon, stuffed-side up, for 2–3 minutes.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

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🧂 Optional Garnishes & Sides

• Extra lemon wedges for serving
• Chopped fresh dill or parsley
• Serve with: garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or wild rice

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🔪 Methods Summary

• Butterflying salmon allows for easy stuffing.
• Searing locks in flavor and texture.
• Baking ensures even cooking of both the fish and the filling.

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✅ Tips for Success

• Use fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible for best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp when sautéing — they’ll cook further in the oven.
• Let the stuffed salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

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