Elegant Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon for Special Occasions

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When you want to impress your guests with something truly extraordinary, few dishes are as stunning as crab and shrimp stuffed salmon. This elegant entrée blends tender salmon with a luxurious filling of sweet crabmeat, succulent shrimp, and creamy, herby goodness. The result is a rich and satisfying flavor that feels like a fine dining experience at home.

Perfect for anniversaries, holidays, or any memorable evening, this dish not only tastes divine but also presents beautifully. Each slice reveals layers of pink salmon and luscious seafood filling that are sure to wow your table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating someone special, this is a recipe to keep in your repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Elegant Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

This dish takes everything we love about salmon and elevates it with an irresistible stuffing. The natural oils of the salmon keep it moist and flavorful, while the stuffing offers a creamy, savory contrast that complements the fish without overpowering it. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, even for home cooks who want to achieve restaurant-quality results.

What Kind of Salmon Should I Use?

For this recipe, it’s best to use a whole side of salmon or thick fillets, skin-on. The thickness allows you to create a pocket for the stuffing and keeps the fish from falling apart during baking. Fresh, wild-caught salmon is ideal for the richest flavor, but quality farm-raised salmon works well too if it’s what you can find. Choose a piece with firm flesh and vibrant color for the best presentation.

Ingredients for the Elegant Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

The key to making this dish truly shine lies in using fresh, quality ingredients. Each component of the filling adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious bite that enhances the salmon without overshadowing it. Be sure to chop and prep your seafood and herbs before you begin assembling for ease.

• Salmon — The star of the dish, choose a whole side or thick fillets with skin on to hold everything together.
• Crabmeat — Adds a sweet, delicate seafood flavor to the stuffing.
• Shrimp — Brings a firmer bite and a touch of briny sweetness.
• Cream cheese — Creates the creamy base that holds the filling together.
• Breadcrumbs — Add texture and help bind the filling.
• Garlic — Infuses the stuffing with fragrant, savory depth.
• Lemon zest — Brightens up the rich seafood flavors.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, dill) — Add a fresh, green note and aroma.
• Salt and pepper — Essential to season every layer of the dish.

How To Make the Elegant Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese until softened. Gently fold in chopped crabmeat, diced shrimp, breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

If using a whole side of salmon, cut a slit down the center to form a pocket, leaving about half an inch on each end. If using fillets, butterfly them by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through.

Step 3: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon the seafood filling into the pocket or between the butterflied fillets. Gently press the salmon closed and smooth out the filling so it’s evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the salmon on a lined baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and season the top with a bit more salt, pepper, and a sprinkling of fresh herbs. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Allow the salmon to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving to let the juices redistribute.

Serving and Storing This Elegant Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

This recipe is designed to serve 4 to 6 people, making it a perfect choice for a small dinner party or an intimate family meal. Serve it straight from the oven while it’s warm, slicing neatly to reveal the beautiful seafood filling inside. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a low oven to preserve the delicate texture of the fish and filling.

What to Serve With Elegant Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the rich salmon and seafood flavors.

Roasted Asparagus

The crispness and earthiness of roasted asparagus balance the dish perfectly.

Lemon Butter Rice Pilaf

A fluffy, citrusy rice pilaf adds a light yet flavorful side.

Baby Greens Salad

A simple salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the main course.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tender carrots bring a pop of color and natural sweetness.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Great for soaking up any extra filling and juices on the plate.

Chardonnay or Sparkling Wine

Both make excellent choices to complement the seafood and elevate the occasion.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this elegant crab and shrimp stuffed salmon, you might also enjoy these other delightful seafood-inspired dishes:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails for a decadent shellfish treat.
• Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp when you want comfort food with a twist.
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa for a fresh and colorful meal.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if you’re craving something rich and hearty.
• Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage for a Southern-inspired comfort dish.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra herbs or try a different type of seafood in the filling? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated seafood and dinner ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next show-stopping recipe.

Conclusion

Whether it’s for a holiday feast or just a night to treat yourself and loved ones, this elegant crab and shrimp stuffed salmon delivers unforgettable flavor and presentation. Easy enough to make at home yet impressive enough for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe box.

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