Imagine a dish so irresistibly delicious that it transforms an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience - welcome to the world of Cheesy Pesto Stuffed Salmon! This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich, buttery texture of salmon with the vibrant, herbaceous flavors of pesto and the creamy indulgence of melted cheese. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or a home cook looking to impress, this Italian-inspired masterpiece promises to elevate your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and pesto. Use a fork or a spatula to mix them together until well blended and creamy.
- Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the cream cheese and pesto mixture. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Place the salmon fillets on a clean cutting board. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit in the side of each salmon fillet to create a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through the fillet.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper to taste, both on the outside and inside the pocket.
- Carefully spoon the cheesy pesto mixture into each salmon pocket, filling them generously but not overstuffing.
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets on a lightly greased baking sheet or in a baking dish, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each fillet for added flavor and moisture during cooking.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the fillet.
- Serve the cheesy pesto stuffed salmon with a side of your choice, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with minimal bones for the best texture and flavor.
- Pat the salmon completely dry before creating the pocket to ensure the stuffing adheres well and prevents sogginess.
- Don't overstuff the salmon - aim for a generous but not overflowing filling to maintain the perfect balance.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked fish.
- Let the salmon rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- For extra flavor, consider using homemade pesto or experimenting with different cheese blends.
- If you prefer a golden top, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 110mg
