Crab stuffed salmon is a delightful seafood dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh salmon with a savory crab stuffing. This elegant meal is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner. The tender salmon fillets are baked to perfection, enveloping a flavorful crab mixture that includes lump crab meat, cooked rice, red bell pepper, onion, and mayonnaise. Seasoned with paprika, chili powder, and black pepper, this dish offers a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Finished with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of lemon zest, the crab stuffed salmon is both visually appealing and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 fresh salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
6-ounce can of lump crab meat, drained
½ cup cold, cooked rice (Jasmine or brown rice)
1 tablespoon finely minced white onion (or white parts of green onion for a milder flavor)
1 tablespoon finely minced red bell pepper
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
¼ teaspoon paprika
⅛ teaspoon chili powder
Ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter, divided
Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Lemon zest for garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil and set it aside.
In a large bowl, combine the lump crab meat, cooked rice, minced onion, minced red bell pepper, and mayonnaise. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Carefully slice each salmon fillet lengthwise down the center to create a pocket for the stuffing. Be cautious not to cut all the way through the fillet.
Stuff each salmon fillet with the crab mixture, ensuring the stuffing is evenly distributed.
Sprinkle the stuffed fillets with paprika, chili powder, and black pepper to season.
Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 14 minutes.
After 14 minutes, check the internal temperature of the salmon using a digital thermometer. Once it reaches 145°F (63°C), place a pat of butter on top of each stuffed fillet and sprinkle with lemon zest.
Return the salmon to the oven and bake for an additional 2 to 4 minutes, or until the butter has melted and the salmon is fully cooked.
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 2 servings)

Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: ~45g
Carbohydrates: ~20g
Fat: ~30g
Saturated Fat: ~7g
Cholesterol: ~135mg
Sodium: ~600mg
Fiber: ~2g
Sugars: ~3g

A Perfect Combination of Flavors and Textures

Salmon and crab are both widely loved for their flavor and texture, but together, they create something truly special. The rich, buttery taste of baked salmon pairs beautifully with the tender, sweet, and slightly briny crab stuffing. The texture of the salmon is delicate yet firm, creating a pleasant contrast with the crab filling, which is soft, moist, and packed with flavor. The seasoning used in the dish – such as paprika, chili powder, and fresh herbs – further enhances the natural flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.

The stuffing for this dish is a critical element, as it infuses the salmon with additional flavors while maintaining the delicate taste of the fish. The crab mixture often includes mayonnaise, which binds the ingredients together while keeping the stuffing creamy and moist. The rice adds substance to the stuffing, creating a more filling dish without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the crab. The combination of vegetables like onion and red bell pepper adds a subtle sweetness and crunch, while the seasonings bring depth and a touch of heat.

Why Choose Crab Stuffed Salmon?

Crab stuffed salmon is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, preparing a meal for guests, or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy seafood, this dish fits the bill. Its elegant presentation and combination of rich, satisfying flavors make it ideal for special occasions such as holidays, anniversaries, or dinner parties. However, it’s also simple enough to be made on a weeknight when you’re craving something decadent but don’t have a lot of time to spare.

The dish is also versatile in terms of pairings. It can be served with a variety of sides, from steamed vegetables and roasted potatoes to rice pilaf or a fresh green salad. For a more indulgent meal, you can serve it with garlic buttered asparagus or a side of buttery mashed potatoes. The freshness of lemon wedges also provides a bright contrast to the richness of the salmon and crab stuffing, making each bite burst with flavor.

Health Benefits of Salmon and Crab

Both salmon and crab are packed with essential nutrients, making this dish not only delicious but also beneficial to your health. Salmon is widely regarded as one of the healthiest fish options due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are known to promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve cognitive function. Additionally, salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.

Crab is another seafood option that offers numerous health benefits. It is a lean source of protein and is relatively low in fat compared to other meats. Crab also provides important vitamins and minerals, including zinc, vitamin B12, and iodine. It’s a great source of omega-3 fatty acids as well, though it contains slightly less than salmon. The combination of salmon and crab in this recipe offers a perfect balance of healthy fats, protein, and essential micronutrients, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tips for Making Perfect Crab Stuffed Salmon

To ensure that your crab stuffed salmon turns out perfectly every time, there are a few helpful tips to keep in mind. These suggestions will help you achieve a dish that is flavorful, moist, and satisfying.

Choose Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients – For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh salmon fillets and lump crab meat. Fresh fish will yield the best results and provide a tender, flaky texture. If using frozen salmon, be sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Similarly, use fresh crab meat if possible, or opt for high-quality canned lump crab meat for convenience.
Be Gentle When Stuffing the Salmon – While it’s tempting to stuff the salmon fillets generously, be careful not to overstuff them. Overstuffing can cause the filling to spill out during baking. Instead, aim to stuff the fillets evenly without forcing the filling in too tightly.
Don’t Overcook the Salmon – Salmon cooks quickly, so it’s essential not to overcook it. Overcooked salmon becomes dry and tough, ruining the dish. To ensure that your salmon is perfectly cooked, monitor its internal temperature with a digital thermometer. The ideal temperature for cooked salmon is 145°F (63°C).
Experiment with Seasonings – While paprika and chili powder are excellent choices for seasoning the crab mixture, don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your tastes. Fresh dill, tarragon, or thyme can add an herbal note to the dish, while a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes will add some heat.
Use a Baking Dish for Even Cooking – Baking the stuffed salmon in a lightly greased dish ensures that the fillets cook evenly. You can also add a few pats of butter on top of the salmon before baking to add richness and moisture.
Serve with Bright Sides – The rich and creamy nature of crab stuffed salmon pairs wonderfully with bright, acidic sides. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a tangy citrus salad, or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Variations of Crab Stuffed Salmon

While the traditional recipe for crab stuffed salmon is already a delicious treat, there are many ways to personalize and add your own twist to the dish. Here are a few ideas for variations:

Add a Creamy Sauce: For an extra layer of richness, serve the crab stuffed salmon with a creamy sauce. A lemon butter sauce or a dill and sour cream sauce would be a perfect complement to the flavors of the salmon and crab.
Use Other Fish: While salmon is the most common choice for this dish, other types of fish, such as cod, halibut, or trout, can also be used. Choose a firm, white fish that can hold up to the stuffing.
Incorporate More Vegetables: Add more vegetables to the stuffing mixture for added flavor and texture. Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or leeks would work well in this dish.
Add Cheese: If you’re a fan of cheese, consider adding a small amount of grated Parmesan or cheddar to the stuffing for a creamy, savory twist.

Conclusion

Crab stuffed salmon is a dish that beautifully combines the best of both worlds: the rich, flaky texture of fresh salmon and the sweet, delicate flavor of crab. It’s a versatile, healthy, and impressive entrée that works for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to formal celebrations. With its delightful flavors, nourishing ingredients, and elegant presentation, it’s no wonder that crab stuffed salmon has become a favorite among seafood lovers.

Pin1

1 Shares