Seafood lovers rejoice! Our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp recipe brings together two of the ocean’s finest flavors in one delicious bite. This dish combines tender shrimp with a savory salmon filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes that’s sure to impress at any dinner table.
Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight meal or wow guests at a special gathering, this recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we’ll guide you through making a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. Let’s dive into a seafood treat that’s as impressive as it is irresistible.
Ingredients
To craft our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp, we carefully select fresh, high-quality ingredients ensuring bold flavors and perfect texture. Below are the components divided for ease of use.
For the Shrimp
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Salmon Stuffing
- 8 oz fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients and Seasonings
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing and brushing |
| Lemon wedges | For garnish | Adds fresh brightness |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | Sprinkled atop for color |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Garnish for aroma and color |
We recommend using fresh herbs and high-quality seafood to maximize the flavors in our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp. The balance of lemon, dill, and garlic enhances the natural richness of both shrimp and salmon creating a harmonious taste experience.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool plays a crucial role in ensuring precision and ease during preparation and cooking.
- Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board for chopping salmon, onions, and herbs safely.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precise knife work is vital for dicing the salmon and minced ingredients finely.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium bowl to combine the stuffing ingredients thoroughly.
- Spoon or Small Spatula: For mixing and stuffing the shrimp without damaging their delicate texture.
- Seafood Shears or Kitchen Scissors: To clean and devein the shrimp efficiently.
- Baking Dish: Choose an appropriately sized baking dish to arrange the stuffed shrimp in a single layer for even cooking.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: To measure spices, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, and cream cheese accurately.
- Oven or Toaster Oven: For baking the stuffed shrimp until the salmon filling cooks perfectly.
- Zester or Microplane (optional): To zest lemon for added flavor garnish.
- Pastry Brush (optional): To lightly coat the shrimp or baking dish with olive oil.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board | Chopping salmon, onions, herbs |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Finely dicing the salmon and stuffing |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining salmon stuffing ingredients |
| Spoon or Small Spatula | Mixing and stuffing shrimp |
| Seafood Shears | Cleaning and deveining shrimp |
| Baking Dish | Baking stuffed shrimp evenly |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Accurate measurement of ingredients |
| Oven/Toaster Oven | Cooking the stuffed shrimp |
| Zester or Microplane* | Lemon zest garnish |
| Pastry Brush* | Applying olive oil |
*Optional but recommended for enhancing flavor and presentation.
Pro Tip: Keeping your chef’s knife sharp ensures clean cuts and helps maintain the shrimp’s integrity during stuffing, resulting in an elegant Salmon Stuffed Shrimp presentation.
Prep Work
Before we begin assembling our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp, proper preparation is crucial to ensure each component flavors beautifully and cooks evenly. Let’s lay the foundation by preparing the shrimp and the salmon stuffing with care.
Preparing the Shrimp
Start by selecting large, fresh shrimp for optimal stuffing capacity and flavor. Follow these precise steps:
- Peel and devein the shrimp carefully, leaving the tails intact for an elegant presentation. Use seafood shears or a small sharp knife to make a slits along the back.
- Create a pocket by slicing along the back of each shrimp, cutting just deep enough to hold the stuffing without splitting the shrimp.
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Lightly brush the shrimp with olive oil and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This enhances flavor and promotes browning during baking.
| Step | Detail | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Peel and devein | Remove shells and vein, keep tails intact | Use kitchen shears for clean cuts |
| Slit back | Cut a pocket without breaking shrimp | Keep pocket open for stuffing |
| Rinse and dry | Clean under cold running water, then pat dry | Prevents watery final dish |
| Season and oil | Brush with olive oil, season with salt & pepper | Enhances browning and flavor |
Pro Tip: Keep your knife sharp to make clean slices for stuffing without tearing the shrimp flesh.
Preparing the Salmon Stuffing
The heart of our dish is the rich, flavorful salmon stuffing. Accurate preparation will amplify the taste and texture:
- Finely chop the fresh salmon fillet into small pieces or pulse briefly in a food processor for uniform texture.
- Mince onions and garlic finely to release their aroma without overpowering the stuffing.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the salmon with:
- Breadcrumbs to bind
- Cream cheese for creaminess
- Fresh dill chopped finely for herbal brightness
- Zest and juice from fresh lemon for citrus balance
- Salt and pepper to season perfectly
- Mix gently until ingredients are well incorporated but still hold some texture.
- Keep the stuffing chilled until ready to fill the shrimp to maintain freshness.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon fillet | Finely chopped | Flavor base and texture |
| Onion and garlic | Minced | Aromatic depth |
| Breadcrumbs | Measured precisely | Binding agent |
| Cream cheese | Softened | Creamy texture |
| Fresh dill | Chopped | Herbal freshness |
| Lemon zest & juice | Grated and squeezed | Bright citrus notes |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Enhances overall flavor |
We recommend chilling the stuffing to firm it up before filling. This step ensures ease of handling and helps the stuffing retain moisture during baking.
By thoroughly prepping the shrimp and salmon stuffing as outlined, we set the stage for a perfectly balanced, flavorful Salmon Stuffed Shrimp dish that dazzles both in taste and appearance.
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to craft our delicious Salmon Stuffed Shrimp. Each phase ensures the perfect balance of flavors and texture for an impressive and flavorful seafood dish.
Making the Salmon Stuffing
- Finely chop the fresh salmon fillet into small, uniform pieces for a smooth stuffing texture.
- Mince the onions and garlic until they are finely textured to release their aroma without overpowering the mix.
- In a mixing bowl combine the chopped salmon, minced onions, and garlic with the following:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mix everything thoroughly until well blended and creamy.
- Cover the bowl and chill the stuffing in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to firm up and enhance flavor melding.
Stuffing the Shrimp
- Take the prepared large shrimp with tails intact. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket along the back by slicing through the middle without cutting all the way through.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides for optimum flavor.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each shrimp pocket generously with the chilled salmon stuffing.
- Gently press the stuffing to ensure it stays inside but do not overfill to avoid splitting shrimp.
- Arrange the stuffed shrimp in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
Cooking the Stuffed Shrimp
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush the stuffed shrimp with olive oil to promote browning and add a silky flavor.
- Sprinkle a pinch of paprika over the shrimp for color and a subtle smoky undertone.
- Bake uncovered for 15-18 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and the stuffing is lightly golden and cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges to add brightness and a burst of citrus aroma.
| Step | Temperature (°F) | Cooking Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 375 | – | Essential for even cooking |
| Bake Stuffed Shrimp | 375 | 15 to 18 min | Shrimp opaque & stuffing golden brown |
| Rest | Room Temp | 2 min | Allows juices to settle |
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the experience of our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp, we recommend pairing the dish with sides and beverages that complement the rich seafood flavors and the fresh, zesty notes of lemon and dill.
Ideal Side Dishes
Balancing the savory stuffed shrimp with lighter, fresh sides creates a well-rounded meal. Consider the following:
- Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Roasted asparagus spears tossed with olive oil, garlic, and grated Parmesan offer a crisp, savory contrast.
- Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and a light lemon vinaigrette enhances the citrus undertones in the shrimp.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the richness of the salmon stuffing.
Beverage Pairings
A thoughtfully selected drink heightens the overall dining experience:
| Beverage Type | Suggested Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White Wine | Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay | Crisp acidity cuts through richness |
| Sparkling Water | Lemon-infused or plain with a twist of lime | Refreshes palate and maintains focus on flavors |
| Light Beer | Pilsner or Lager | Mild bitterness balances seafood |
Presentation Tips
Presentation plays a crucial role in appealing to the senses:
- Arrange the Salmon Stuffed Shrimp on a large platter.
- Garnish generously with fresh parsley and lemon wedges to add vibrant color and brightness.
- Drizzle a light splash of olive oil or melted herb butter just before serving to give a glossy finish.
“The goal is to create a dish that looks as enticing as it tastes—fresh, colorful, and inviting.”
Final Touch
Serve the dish immediately after baking to enjoy the shrimp at their juiciest and the salmon stuffing perfectly creamy. Keep extra lemon wedges handy so guests can add a personal citrus burst.
Our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp shines best when paired thoughtfully with complementary sides, beverages, and garnishes that enhance its elegance and nuanced flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing the Salmon Stuffed Shrimp in advance can save us valuable time while ensuring the flavors fully develop for a more delicious outcome. Here are the optimized steps to make this elegant dish ahead of time without compromising its freshness or presentation.
Prepare and Chill the Stuffing
- After finely chopping the salmon, onions, and garlic, combine them with breadcrumbs, cream cheese, fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until creamy and well incorporated.
- Transfer the stuffing to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Keep the stuffing chilled to maintain ease of handling when filling the shrimp.
Prepare and Store the Shrimp
- Peel, devein, and create a pocket in each large shrimp as described in the prep steps.
- Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the shrimp on a parchment-lined tray or airtight container.
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours.
Assemble and Store Fully Stuffed Shrimp
- Stuff the chilled shrimp pockets with the pre-made salmon stuffing, being careful not to overfill.
- Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking dish lined with parchment paper or foil.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Refrigerate for no more than 6 hours to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy or releasing excess moisture.
Before Cooking
- Remove the stuffed shrimp from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before baking to bring them to room temperature for even cooking.
- Preheat the oven as directed.
- Brush the stuffed shrimp with olive oil.
- Bake immediately for best results.
| Step | Maximum Refrigeration Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon stuffing | 24 hours | Keep airtight and chilled |
| Cleaned seasoned shrimp | 12 hours | Avoid long storage to preserve texture |
| Fully stuffed shrimp (uncooked) | 6 hours | Cover tightly, avoid moisture buildup |
Pro Tip: For optimal flavor and texture, avoid freezing the stuffed shrimp as this can alter the delicate salmon filling and shrimp quality. Instead, stick to refrigeration within the recommended time frames.
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure our Salmon Stuffed Shrimp remains indulgently fresh and impressive for any occasion.
Conclusion
This Salmon Stuffed Shrimp recipe brings together the best of seafood flavors in a dish that’s both elegant and approachable. Its balance of fresh ingredients and simple preparation makes it perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
By paying attention to quality and technique, we can create a meal that impresses without overwhelming our time in the kitchen. Pairing it with thoughtful sides and drinks elevates the experience even more.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of tender shrimp and savory salmon that’s sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Salmon Stuffed Shrimp?
You need large shrimp, fresh salmon fillet, onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, fresh dill, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional garnishes like parsley, paprika, and lemon wedges.
How do I prepare the shrimp for stuffing?
Peel and devein the shrimp, keeping the tails intact. Create a pocket by carefully slicing the back, rinse, dry, and season them before stuffing.
What is the best way to make the salmon stuffing?
Finely chop salmon and mix with minced onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, fresh dill, lemon juice and zest, salt, and pepper. Chill the mixture for freshness and easier handling.
How should I cook the stuffed shrimp?
Preheat the oven, brush the stuffed shrimp with olive oil, and bake until the shrimp turns pink and the stuffing is golden, usually about 12-15 minutes.
Can I prepare Salmon Stuffed Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and chill the shrimp and salmon stuffing separately in the fridge up to a day before cooking. Avoid freezing to maintain quality.
What side dishes pair well with Salmon Stuffed Shrimp?
Garlic Parmesan Asparagus, Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad, and Creamy Mashed Potatoes complement the flavors beautifully.
What beverages go best with this dish?
Try pairing with Sauvignon Blanc, sparkling water, or a light beer for a refreshing balance.
How should I serve Salmon Stuffed Shrimp for the best presentation?
Arrange the shrimp on a platter, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges, and drizzle with olive oil or melted herb butter. Serve immediately after baking.