Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Seafood Delight

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with this exquisite recipe for Elegant Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon. The combination of tender crab meat, succulent shrimp, and delicate salmon fillets creates a sophisticated dish that is perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Each bite of this stuffed salmon is a harmonious blend of rich seafood goodness and aromatic herbs, finished with a golden crust that adds a delightful crunch.

I remember the first time I made this Elegant Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon for a cozy anniversary dinner at home. It quickly became a family favorite, earning a top spot on our celebratory menu. The natural sweetness of the crab and shrimp pairs beautifully with the salmon, creating a memorable dining experience that always leaves us wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating your loved ones to a special meal, this dish is sure to impress and delight.

For a delightful meal, serve this Elegant Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon alongside simple sides like steamed asparagus or a refreshing green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The leftovers store well for a couple of days, ensuring that you can savor the delicious flavors even after the first serving. With its timeless appeal and irresistible taste, this stuffed salmon recipe is a true celebration of elegant seafood dining.

Quick Benefits

• Elevates the salmon dish to an elegant and sophisticated level, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals with a touch of luxury.
• Delivers a rich seafood flavor profile with a hint of zesty herbs, satisfying even the most discerning palates.
• Provides a versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions and adaptations, making it suitable for different dietary needs and preferences.
• Offers make-ahead convenience, allowing for preparation in advance and easy reheating for a stress-free dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Seafood Delight Recipe

• Rich and Decadent Flavors: The creamy blend of crab and shrimp brings a natural sweetness to the salmon, creating a luxurious seafood experience in every bite.
• Impressively Elegant Dish: Perfect for dinner parties or special occasions, this stuffed salmon looks and tastes like a gourmet restaurant dish.
• Family Favorite: The dish is so beloved that it has become a staple for special family celebrations and gatherings, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Memorable Dining Experience: The first time your family tries this, the flavors will leave them speechless before they start raving about the dish, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
• Versatile and Flexible: You can easily customize this recipe by using canned crab or shrimp, low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option, or substituting different herbs to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or stress-free entertaining.
• Leftovers Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish multiple times, with the option to freeze for later enjoyment.
• Classic and Timeless: Drawing inspiration from traditional European and coastal cuisines, this dish combines classic techniques with modern flavors for an elegant seafood feast.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve this salmon with simple sides like asparagus, wild rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad to complement the rich flavors and complete the meal beautifully.

Ingredients for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Seafood Delight

Seafood

• 120 g lump crab meat
• 120 g cooked shrimp, chopped
• 4 skinless salmon fillets (170 g each)

Dairy

• 60 g cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

Vegetables and Herbs

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Seasonings

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Pantry

• 30 g breadcrumbs
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pro Tips for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Seafood Delight

Pro Tip 1: When stuffing the salmon fillets, be sure to cut deep enough to create a pocket but not all the way through. Using toothpicks to gently secure the pocket can help the stuffing stay in place during cooking.

Pro Tip 2: For easy prep ahead of time, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon fillets a few hours before cooking. Simply keep them refrigerated until you are ready to cook the dish.

Pro Tip 3: To ensure perfectly cooked salmon, look for it to flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will guarantee a moist and flavorful result every time.

How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Seafood Delight

Step 1: Prepare Seafood Filling

Combine chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Shape and Season Salmon Fillets

Preheat oven to 190°C. Carefully cut a pocket in the center of each salmon fillet using a sharp knife, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides and inside the pocket with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff and Secure Salmon

Evenly fill each salmon pocket with the seafood stuffing and secure the edges with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 4: Sear Stuffed Salmon

In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear stuffed salmon fillets for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and crisp.

Step 5: Bake to Finish

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the filling is heated.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Take the skillet out of the oven. Plate the stuffed salmon and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Elegant Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the moisture and flavors of the dish, it’s best to reheat the salmon gently in the oven or a covered skillet. Freezing is also an option; however, be aware that the texture of the stuffing may become slightly softer after thawing.

When serving the stuffed salmon, consider pairing it with simple sides like steamed asparagus, wild rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. For extra flavor, a dollop of herbed yogurt or an additional squeeze of lemon can enhance the dish further. This elegant seafood entree can be a delightful addition to both casual weeknight meals and special occasions, impressing your family and guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh lump crab is not available, canned crab can be used as a suitable substitute. Ensure to drain the canned crab thoroughly and pick through it for any shells before incorporating it into the recipe. This will still provide a delicious crab flavor for the stuffing.

For a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese can be used instead of regular cream cheese without compromising the creamy texture of the stuffing. This substitution can help reduce the overall richness of the dish while still maintaining a flavorful and satisfying result. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be swapped for regular breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions. Chives or dill can be used in place of parsley to add a different herb note to the stuffing, providing a fresh and unique flavor profile to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve the crab shrimp stuffed salmon on a bed of wild rice pilaf, garnished with a drizzle of herbed yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Pair it with a side of steamed asparagus lightly seasoned with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. This combination of flavors and textures creates a restaurant-worthy meal that is sure to impress your guests.

To add a touch of brightness to the dish, serve the crab shrimp stuffed salmon with a side of roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables complement the seafood stuffing beautifully. For a complete dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a glass of crisp white wine or a citrusy sparkling water with a slice of lemon.

FAQs for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Seafood Delight

Can I use canned crab instead of fresh lump crab meat?

Yes, canned crab works well if fresh lump crab is unavailable. Be sure to drain and pick through for any shells before use.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this stuffed salmon?

Steamed asparagus, wild rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad make excellent accompaniments to this seafood dish.

Any tips for stuffing the salmon fillets?

Carefully cut deep but not all the way through the salmon fillet and gently secure the pocket with toothpicks if needed.

Can I prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon up to a few hours in advance. Keep refrigerated until ready to cook.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Elegant Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a dish that truly embodies the essence of a special meal shared with loved ones. The rich flavors of crab and shrimp elevate the salmon to a whole new level, creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treat your family to something extraordinary, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Don’t be intimidated by the fancy-sounding name; this recipe is surprisingly easy to put together and yields fantastic results every time. The combination of seafood flavors, zesty herbs, and golden crust is a symphony for your taste buds. So go ahead, give Elegant Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon a try, and let it become a treasured favorite in your home too.