Go Back
–+ servings
Healthy Blackened Salmon with Spinach & Parmesan Filling

Healthy Blackened Salmon with Spinach & Parmesan Filling Bliss

This Healthy Blackened Salmon with Spinach & Parmesan Filling brings vibrant flavors and good-for-you ingredients together in under 35 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 4 fillets salmon Choose skin-on for an even crispier texture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil This will help the spices adhere and add flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika Gives that signature smoky flavor to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Boosts the overall flavor profile beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds a lovely aromatic touch to the seasoning.
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper For a kick of heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme A classic herb that complements the salmon perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds an earthy flavor and aroma.
  • Salt Essential for enhancing all the flavors; don’t skip!
  • Pepper Essential for enhancing all the flavors; don’t skip!
For the Filling
  • 4 cups fresh spinach Packed with nutrients; sauté to enhance its flavor and reduce volume.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Creates a creamy base for the filling that balances the spice.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds richness and a nutty flavor to the filling.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens the dish beautifully; a hint of freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Enhances the lemon flavor and adds aromatic oils.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 cups of fresh spinach and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until wilted and vibrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano, along with ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil on both sides of each fillet, then coat them with the spice mixture, pressing to adhere.
  6. In an oven-safe skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and slightly charred.
  7. Spoon the prepared spinach and cheese filling evenly over each fillet, spreading gently with the back of a spoon.
  8. Transfer the skillet with the salmon to your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  9. Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Fresh spinach matters; opt for vibrant, fresh spinach for the best flavor. Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference. Ensure uniform salmon thickness for even cooking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!