If you're looking to impress your dinner guests with a dish that's as stunning as it is delicious, look no further than these Parmesan Herb Salmon Pinwheels! Bursting with flavor and elegance, this recipe transforms simple salmon fillets into a gourmet masterpiece. With a creamy herb filling that complements the rich taste of the salmon, every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make, taking just 35 minutes from prep to plate. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners or special occasions with this irresistible recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped fresh herbs (dill and parsley), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lay each fillet flat on a cutting board.
- Carefully butterfly each salmon fillet by making a horizontal cut almost through the fillet, creating a thin, even surface that can be opened like a book.
- Spread the herb and cheese mixture evenly across the opened salmon fillets, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully roll each salmon fillet into a tight pinwheel, ensuring the filling stays inside. Secure each pinwheel with 2-3 toothpicks to maintain its shape during cooking.
- Place the salmon pinwheels seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Carefully remove toothpicks before serving.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs and a lemon wedge if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh herbs like dill and parsley. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the taste of your dish.
- Butterfly with Care: When butterflying the salmon fillets, be gentle to avoid cutting all the way through. This will help maintain the integrity of the fillet while creating a perfect pocket for the filling.
- Keep It Tight: When rolling the salmon, ensure it’s tightly secured to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Using toothpicks is a great way to maintain the shape of your pinwheels.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on the cooking time. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon that’s still moist and flaky.
- Serve with Style: Garnish your pinwheels with extra fresh herbs and a lemon wedge for a pop of color and freshness. This not only enhances the presentation but adds a zesty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
