Blackened Salmon Spinach Parmesan (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salmon Fillets

01 - 4 salmon fillets, 170 g each, skinless

→ Spinach Parmesan Filling

02 - 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
03 - 115 g cream cheese, softened
04 - 35 g grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
06 - Salt to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Seasoning Blend

08 - 1 teaspoon paprika
09 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 - Salt to taste

→ For Cooking and Serving

13 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
14 - Lemon wedges for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Place spinach in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from the pan and drain any excess liquid.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
03 - With a sharp knife, slice each salmon fillet horizontally to form a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
04 - Evenly distribute the spinach and cheese mixture into each salmon fillet pocket, filling generously.
05 - In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over the tops of the filled salmon fillets.
06 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until the surface is blackened and crisp.
07 - Preheat the oven to 175°C. Transfer the seared salmon fillets to an oven-safe dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
08 - Arrange the stuffed salmon fillets on serving plates and garnish with fresh lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For added spice, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the seasoning blend.
02 - Grilling the stuffed salmon instead of pan-searing imparts a smoky flavor.
03 - Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or a green salad for a balanced meal.