Here is a recipe for Spinach Stuffed Salmon that yields 4 servings:
**Required Ingredients:**
For the salmon:
* 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
For the spinach stuffing:
* 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For the pan sauce (optional):
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
* 1/2 cup chicken or fish broth
* Salt and pepper, to taste
**Cooking Steps:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a bowl, mix together the spinach, garlic, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Divide the spinach mixture among the salmon fillets, spooning it onto the surface of the fish.
6. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top of the spinach mixture, if using.
7. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
8. Remove the salmon from the oven and immediately plate.
9. If desired, prepare the pan sauce by heating the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
10. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
11. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until the liquid has almost completely evaporated.
12. Add the chicken or fish broth and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
**Tips for Correct Cooking Techniques:**
* Make sure to pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels before stuffing and baking to prevent moisture from accumulating and affecting the texture of the fish.
* Don't over-stuff the salmon, as this can cause the filling to ooze out during cooking. Aim for a generous coating of spinach mixture, but leave some space between the filling and the edges of the fish.
* Cooking the salmon at the correct temperature (400°F) will help ensure that it cooks evenly and that the inside remains moist and tender.
* Don't overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the salmon to steam instead of sear. Cook the fillets in batches if necessary.
* When plating, make sure to spoon some of the delicious pan sauce (if using) over the top of the salmon to add an extra burst of flavor.
**Variations:**
* **Greek Spinach Stuffing:** Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley to the spinach mixture.
* **Italian-Style Spinach Stuffing:** Add 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil to the spinach mixture.
* **Asian-Inspired Spinach Stuffing:** Add 1/4 cup chopped scallions and 1 tablespoon soy sauce to the spinach mixture.
* **Mediterranean Spinach Stuffing:** Add 1/4 cup chopped artichoke hearts and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint to the spinach mixture.
* **Seafood-Stuffed Salmon:** Add 1/4 cup chopped cooked shrimp, scallops, or crab meat to the spinach mixture for added protein and flavor.
I hope you enjoy this recipe! Let me know if you have any questions or if you'd like any variations or substitutions.