Seafood Symphony Wrapped in Salmon

Seafood lovers, rejoice! “Seafood Symphony Wrapped in Salmon” is a culinary masterpiece that combines the best of the ocean in one stunning dish. Imagine succulent shrimp, tender scallops, and flavorful crab meat encased in fresh salmon fillets. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The blend of textures and flavors, topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying something new, this recipe will impress both your palate and your guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 skinless salmon fillets: Choose fresh, firm salmon with bright orange-pink flesh for the best flavor.
• 1/2 lb (225g) shrimp: Peeled and deveined. Large shrimp work best for this recipe, offering a meaty texture that complements the other seafood.
• 1/2 lb (225g) scallops: Bay scallops are preferred for their sweetness, but sea scallops work as well. Just make sure to slice the larger ones in half if needed.
• 1/2 cup crab meat: Use cooked, fresh crab meat for the best flavor. Canned crab meat can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
• 2 tbsp butter: For sautéing the garlic and seafood, butter adds richness to the dish.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic base to the seafood mixture.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: These create a crispy topping. Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for their light, airy texture.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the crust.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of herbs adds color and brightness.

Preparation:

• Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures even cooking of the salmon while keeping the seafood tender.

• Step 2:

In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This will release the garlic’s oils, infusing the butter with its flavor.

• Step 3:

Add the shrimp, scallops, and crab meat to the skillet. Cook the seafood for about 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and the scallops are opaque. Be careful not to overcook; you want the seafood to remain tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

• Step 4:

In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a crispy topping that adds texture to the seafood mixture.

• Step 5:

Lay each salmon fillet on a piece of parchment paper. Spoon the seafood mixture evenly over the top of each fillet. Gently wrap the salmon around the seafood mixture, ensuring it’s securely wrapped.

• Step 6:

Place the wrapped salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture over the top of each wrapped fillet for added crunch.

• Step 7:

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

COOKING Note:

• Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes. You want the fish to flake easily with a fork but remain moist and tender. If your fillets are on the thinner side, reduce the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
• For even more flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets right before serving. The acidity balances out the richness of the seafood.

Serving Suggestions:

This luxurious dish pairs beautifully with light sides that complement its flavors without overpowering them. Here are a few ideas:

1. Lemon Butter Sauce: Drizzle a homemade lemon butter sauce over the salmon for extra richness. Simply melt butter, add lemon juice, and stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Bright, crisp vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make for a perfect side.
3. Herbed Rice or Quinoa: A simple grain dish seasoned with herbs and a bit of lemon zest complements the seafood beautifully.

Tips:

• Add Spinach: For an extra layer of flavor, toss in some fresh spinach into the seafood mixture while cooking. It adds a beautiful color and sneaks in some greens.
• Crispier Topping: If you love a super crispy topping, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Seafood Alternatives: Feel free to mix and match different types of seafood depending on your preference. Lobster meat, for example, is a luxurious alternative to crab.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, is the perfect pairing for this dish. The acidity and citrus notes will cut through the richness of the salmon and seafood.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information:
Per Serving (based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQs:

1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the seafood filling and wrap the salmon ahead of time. Store the prepared fillets in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as instructed.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow the baked salmon to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
3. What if I don’t have scallops or crab? Feel free to substitute with your favorite seafood. Lobster, clams, or even chunks of white fish like cod can work well in this recipe.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes! Swap out the butter for a dairy-free alternative like olive oil, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
5. How can I tell if the salmon is cooked properly? The best way to check is by using a food thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). Additionally, the flesh should flake easily with a fork.

Conclusion:

Seafood Symphony Wrapped in Salmon is a show-stopping dish that combines the finest flavors of the sea with the rich, buttery texture of salmon. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a gourmet meal at home. The combination of shrimp, scallops, and crab, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust, offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether served with vegetables, rice, or a simple lemon butter sauce, this seafood masterpiece is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Print