???????????? Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 1 large salmon fillet (about 1.5–2 lbs), butterflied
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Paprika, for garnish
• Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing

For the Crab & Shrimp Stuffing:

• 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1/2 lb lump crab meat (check for shell pieces)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup finely diced celery (optional for crunch)
• 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Make the stuffing:
   • In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayo, Parmesan, mozzarella, mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire. Mix until smooth.
   • Fold in the chopped shrimp, crab meat, bell pepper, celery (if using), green onions, and seasonings (Old Bay, garlic powder, salt, pepper). Mix until well combined.
3. Prepare the salmon:
   • Butterfly the salmon fillet (slice horizontally down the middle, but not all the way through, to open it like a book).
   • Season both sides lightly with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika.
   • Place on a greased baking dish, skin-side down.
4. Stuff the salmon:
   • Spoon the seafood mixture onto one half of the butterflied salmon.
   • Fold the top half over the stuffing (like a sandwich), or if the fillet is fully opened, you can layer the stuffing in the center and fold both ends toward the middle.
   • Optional: Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure if needed.
5. Bake:
   • Brush top with olive oil or melted butter for a golden finish.
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. Finish & Serve:
   • Optional: Broil the top for 2–3 minutes for a golden crust.
   • Garnish with extra chives, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of garlic butter.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, lemon rice, or a fresh garden salad.
• A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.