Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight: A Luxurious Seafood Experience

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Introduction

Introduction

Seafood lovers, prepare to indulge in a luxurious meal that blends the finest flavors of the ocean—Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight. This gourmet dish combines fresh salmon with a decadent stuffing of crab and shrimp, all finished with a garlic butter sauce that’s nothing short of divine. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply elevating a weekend dinner, Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen. With each bite, you’ll experience a perfect balance of creamy textures and savory richness.

In this recipe, you’ll not only learn how to sear and bake salmon fillets to perfection, but you’ll also create a flavorful filling and whip up a garlic butter sauce that complements the dish beautifully. Additionally, you’ll discover some essential tips to ensure every bite of your Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight is bursting with flavor. So, without further ado, let’s get started and bring this seafood delight to your table!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skinless)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 lemon (sliced)

For the Crab and Shrimp Filling:

  • 1/2 cup lump crab meat
  • 1/2 cup small shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

  1. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Meanwhile, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
  4. As soon as the butter starts sizzling, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side up (if using skin-on fillets).
  5. Sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the top to turn golden brown. Afterward, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Crab and Shrimp Filling

  1. While the salmon rests, begin preparing the filling. In a medium bowl, combine lump crab meat, shrimp, mayonnaise, cream cheese, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice.
  2. Next, stir the ingredients together with a spatula or spoon until they are fully combined and smooth.
  3. At this point, taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice or Old Bay seasoning for a bit of extra flavor.

Step 3: Stuff the Salmon

  1. Carefully, using a sharp knife, make a slit in the center of each salmon fillet, creating a pocket large enough to hold the filling.
  2. Now, generously stuff each salmon fillet with the crab and shrimp mixture, ensuring not to overfill.
  3. Press the filling into the pocket gently and smooth it out with a spoon to make sure it stays in place.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

  1. After stuffing the fillets, return the salmon to the skillet and arrange lemon slices around the fish to infuse additional flavor.
  2. Then, transfer the skillet into the preheated oven and bake the Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. While the salmon bakes, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Then, stir in the white wine (if using) and lemon juice, allowing the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes so the flavors can meld together. This will also help reduce the alcohol content if using wine.
  4. Finally, remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley to finish.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Once the salmon is baked, allow it to rest for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Then, drizzle the garlic butter sauce generously over each fillet, making sure to coat both the salmon and the filling.
  3. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor.

COOKING Note

  • When selecting your salmon, opt for thicker fillets, as they hold the filling more effectively. Additionally, wild-caught salmon is known for having a richer flavor compared to farm-raised varieties, though either option will work well for this recipe.
  • Moreover, the crab and shrimp filling can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, making this dish easier to assemble when you’re ready to cook.
  • If you prefer not to use white wine in the sauce, feel free to substitute it with seafood broth or omit it altogether without losing much flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side dishes: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts make excellent companions to Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight, as they complement the rich flavors beautifully.
  • Pair with: A side of creamy mashed potatoes or risotto can add a comforting, hearty element to the meal.
  • Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will enhance the freshness of the seafood while balancing the buttery sauce.
  • For a lighter option, you could serve this salmon dish with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, which provides a refreshing contrast.

Tips

  • Be sure to peel and devein the shrimp to avoid any unwanted texture in the filling.
  • Keep a close eye on the garlic while preparing the butter sauce, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and affect the overall flavor of the dish.
  • If you find it tricky to make a pocket in the salmon, another option is to layer the filling on top of the fillets and bake them open-faced. This still provides a delicious presentation.
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give your sauce the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same vibrancy and freshness.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: Approx. 450 kcal
  • Protein: 38g
  • Sodium: 620mg

Conclusion

The Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight is an extraordinary dish that blends the finest seafood flavors into one stunning presentation. With its creamy, flavorful filling and rich garlic butter sauce, this salmon recipe is ideal for special occasions, yet simple enough for an impressive weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking to impress guests or just want to treat yourself to something special, Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight offers the perfect balance of elegance and ease.

Serving Salmon Filled with Crab and Shrimp Delight will elevate any meal, leaving your guests or family members raving about the restaurant-quality results. So, go ahead and bring the taste of the ocean to your table, and indulge in this deliciously delightful dish.

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of seafood in the filling?
Yes, you can substitute crab or shrimp with lobster or scallops for an equally decadent option.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the crab and shrimp filling up to 24 hours in advance and stuff the salmon just before cooking.

3. What can I use instead of white wine in the sauce?
You can easily substitute seafood broth for the white wine, or you can omit it altogether without losing much flavor.

If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!