Blackened Salmon Spinach Parmesan (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salmon Fillets

01 - 4 skinless salmon fillets (approximately 170 g each)

→ Spinach and Cheese Filling

02 - 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
03 - 120 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 and Garnish

08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
09 - 1 teaspoon paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - Lemon wedges, for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Cook spinach in a skillet over medium heat until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine wilted spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
03 - Using a sharp knife, slice each salmon fillet horizontally to create a pocket, taking care not to cut all the way through.
04 - Evenly fill each pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, gently pressing the filling inside.
05 - Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly over the tops of the stuffed fillets.
06 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed salmon for 2 to 3 minutes per side, ensuring the exterior is well-blackened and crisp.
07 - Preheat oven to 175°C. Transfer seared fillets to a baking tray and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until just cooked through and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
08 - Place the stuffed salmon on serving plates and accompany with fresh lemon wedges.

# Notes:

01 - Pat spinach dry after wilting to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
02 - Do not overstuff the salmon to prevent the filling from spilling while cooking.