This rich and flavorful dish combines tender salmon fillets stuffed with creamy spinach and topped with juicy garlic shrimp. It’s an elegant yet comforting meal that feels restaurant-quality but is simple enough to prepare at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures in one dish. The creamy spinach filling adds richness to the flaky salmon, while the garlic shrimp provides a savory, slightly buttery contrast. It’s perfect for special dinners, yet easy enough for a weeknight treat. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it both delicious and nourishing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salmon and filling:
4 salmon fillets (about 170–200 g each, skin removed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
120 g cream cheese, softened
60 ml heavy cream
50 g grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the garlic shrimp:
250 g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
3. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in cream cheese, heavy cream, parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth and creamy.
5. Slice each salmon fillet horizontally to create a pocket. Fill each with the creamed spinach mixture.
6. Place the stuffed salmon on a baking dish and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
7. While the salmon bakes, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
8. Add garlic and cook briefly, then add shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
9. Stir in lemon juice, salt, pepper, and parsley.
10. Remove salmon from the oven and top each fillet with garlic shrimp before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

You can swap the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different flavor. For extra richness, add a bit of shredded mozzarella to the filling. If you prefer a spicier kick, include chili flakes in the shrimp or the filling. You can also grill the salmon instead of baking it for a smoky taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in an oven-safe dish and warm at 160°C for about 10–12 minutes. Shrimp can be reheated gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the salmon.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

What type of salmon works best?

Fresh, skinless salmon fillets like Atlantic or sockeye work well for this recipe.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and stuff the salmon in advance, then bake it just before serving.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of about 63°C.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the filling will be less rich and slightly thinner.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Can I skip the shrimp?

Absolutely, the stuffed salmon is delicious on its own.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook them just until pink and opaque; overcooking makes them rubbery.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cream cheese and cream alternatives for a similar texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If meal prepping, store components separately for better texture.

Conclusion

Creamed Spinach-Stuffed Salmon with Garlic Shrimp is a perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity. With its creamy filling, tender fish, and flavorful shrimp topping, it’s a dish that impresses without requiring complicated steps. Whether for a special occasion or a satisfying dinner at home, this recipe delivers on both taste and presentation.

Print