Season each of the 4 (6 oz. / 170g) salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper, then drizzle with 2 tbsp. (30ml) of fresh lemon juice and 1 tbsp. (15ml) of the olive oil.

Arrange the salmon fillets flat onto a smooth, clean cutting board.

With a sharp chef's knife, carefully slice a pocket horizontally into the side of each salmon fillet about ¾ of the way through, ensuring you do not cut all the way to the other side.

For the filling: in a medium mixing bowl, add the 4 oz. (115g) of softened cream cheese, 0. 25 cups (25g) of finely grated Parmesan cheese, 4 oz. (115g) of dried spinach, 2 tsp. (10g) of minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper, and mix everything well until fully combined.

Place about 1. 5 tbsp. (22g / 0.78 oz) of the spinach and cheese mixture into each salmon pocket and spread it evenly to fill the cavity without overflowing.

In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp. (15ml) of olive oil and 1 tbsp. (14g / 0.49 oz) of unsalted butter over medium-high heat until simmering, then cook the stuffed salmon fillets for about 6 to 8 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms and the fish flakes easily.

Remove the cooked salmon fillets from the heat, carefully transfer them onto warm serving plates, and serve your elegant Entertaining Salmon immediately.

Squeeze the Spinach Completely Dry: This is the most crucial step! Frozen spinach holds a lot of water.

Wrap the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out aggressively. Any leftover moisture will make your filling runny and water down the flavors.

Do Not Overstuff the Pockets: It can be tempting to pack in as much of that delicious cream cheese filling as possible, but overstuffing will cause the filling to spill out during the pan-searing process. Stick to the recommended 1. 5 tbsp. (22g / 0.78 oz) per fillet.

Let the Crust Form: When you place the salmon in the hot skillet, leave it alone! Constantly moving the fish prevents that beautiful, golden-brown crust from forming.

Let it sear undisturbed for the first 6 minutes before gently flipping.