Blackened Salmon is a bold and flavorful dish featuring perfectly seasoned salmon fillets with a smoky, slightly spicy crust. Cooked in a hot skillet, this recipe delivers crispy, caramelized edges and tender, juicy fish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this salmon pairs beautifully with fresh veggies, rice, or a zesty salad. Packed with protein and omega-3s, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
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For the Blackening Seasoning
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on or skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, mix together all the blackening seasoning ingredients until well combined.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil or melted butter.
- Generously coat the flesh side of the salmon with the blackening seasoning, pressing it in to adhere.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
- Place the salmon fillets seasoning-side down in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the seasoning forms a dark crust.
- Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- Cooking tip: For a less smoky kitchen, use a well-ventilated area or grill the salmon outdoors.
- Pairing suggestions: Serve with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a tangy coleslaw to balance the bold flavors.
- Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Conclusion
Blackened Salmon is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a wholesome meal at home. With its smoky, spicy crust and tender interior, this recipe will become a go-to for seafood lovers. Try it today and savor the rich flavors of this classic dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the blackening seasoning and salmon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the blackening seasoning up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also season the salmon fillets up to 30 minutes before cooking; keep them refrigerated during this time. For longer storage, consider freezing the seasoned salmon fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
What if I don’t have all the spices for the blackening seasoning? Are there any substitutions?
Absolutely! If you’re missing a spice, you can often substitute it. For instance, if you don’t have dried thyme, you can use an equal amount of dried rosemary or Italian seasoning. If you’re out of cayenne pepper, you can omit it entirely or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Remember to adjust the amounts to suit your taste. Smoked paprika is crucial for the smoky flavor, so try to keep that ingredient.
How do I know when the blackened salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Visually, the flesh should appear opaque and slightly firm. You can also gently press the fillet with a fork; if it separates easily along the natural flakes, it’s likely done. Avoid overcooking, as this will result in dry salmon.
Can I double or triple this recipe to serve a larger group?
Yes, you can easily scale up this recipe. If doubling, you may need to cook the salmon in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Use a larger skillet, or consider using two skillets simultaneously. When tripling, you’ll likely need to cook in batches. Adjust cooking times slightly, as larger batches might require a minute or two longer to cook through.
What are the nutritional benefits of eating Blackened Salmon?
Blackened Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse! Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function. It’s also rich in high-quality protein, essential for muscle building and repair. The spices used in the blackening seasoning, like garlic powder and onion powder, provide antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
Blackened Salmon
A flavorful and spicy blackened salmon recipe that's easy to make and perfect for any meal.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon about 6 oz each, skin removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Rub salmon fillets with olive oil and coat with the spice mixture.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side up, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Flip the salmon fillets over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
