Goat Cheese Stuffed Salmon

This has to be our favorite way to prepare salmon.  At first I thought the combination of goat cheese and salmon sounded odd, but I decided to give it a try since they are two things I like.  I got this recipe from a site called Ile de France Cheese.

INGREDIENTS

2 pound filet of salmon, at least ¾ (three quarters) to 1 inch thick
4 ounces goat cheese or herb goat cheese, such as Ile de France
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (tarragon, dill, thyme, chives and/or basil)
2 cups baby spinach leaves
1 lemon
1 tablespoon olive oil

 
    * Using a sharp knife, cut into the salmon lengthwise starting at the thickest end, working your way ¾ of the way through—do not cut the filet in half. The idea is to cut an “opening” into the filet but not separate the filet into two.
    * In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese, salt, pepper and herbs until smooth.
    * Lift the top of the salmon filet up and spread the goat cheese on top of the bottom layer. Top with the spinach leaves, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the top filet back on and press down so the stuffing is patted down. Place the salmon onto a thick piece of aluminum foil.
    * Cut the lemon in half. Cut half the lemon into paper thin slices. Squeeze the remaining lemon half on top of the salmon. Place the lemon slices on top of the fish. Drizzle the oil on top of the fish, sprinkle with a grinding of pepper, and seal tightly.
    * Place the salmon on the hot grill and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. The salmon should just begin to flake. Serves 4 to 6.