Imagine cutting into a perfectly cooked salmon fillet and discovering a creamy, peppery surprise inside that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Salmon Stuffed with Arugula recipe is not just a meal—it's a gourmet adventure that brings the sophistication of fine dining right to your kitchen. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, you'll impress your family and guests with a dish that looks and tastes like it was crafted by a professional chef.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed salmon.
- Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help ensure a nice texture when cooked.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and lemon juice. Use a fork or a spatula to mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the arugula to the cream cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold the arugula into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a space to hold the filling.
- Stuff each salmon fillet with the arugula and cream cheese mixture, using a spoon to ensure they are filled generously.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if they have skin.
- Sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Avoid moving the fillets around to allow a nice crust to form.
- Once the salmon is seared, carefully flip the fillets over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake the salmon for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve the stuffed salmon fillets warm, garnished with additional arugula or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious Salmon Stuffed with Arugula!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Select high-quality, fresh salmon fillets with a vibrant color and firm texture for the best results.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Always thoroughly dry your salmon with paper towels before cooking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overstuff: When creating the pocket and filling the salmon, be careful not to overfill, which can cause the filling to leak during cooking.
- Watch Your Cooking Time: Salmon cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked. Aim for a slightly translucent center for the most tender result.
- Let It Rest: Always allow your salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking to help redistribute the juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or chives to the cream cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg