Best Easy Blackened Salmon
This easy blackened salmon recipe is a flavorful and quick dish that will wow your taste buds. The blackened seasoning is a combination of bold spices that create a perfectly crispy, flavorful crust on the salmon while keeping the fish moist and tender on the inside. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this blackened salmon is sure to impress.
With the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors, this blackened salmon will become one of your go-to recipes. The seasoning coats the fish beautifully, giving it a crispy texture while the flesh remains tender and flaky. Served with your favorite side, this dish brings together a punch of flavor and a satisfying meal that doesn’t take long to prepare. You’ll love the vibrant, delicious taste of this easy blackened salmon that’s packed with so much flavor yet so simple to make!
Tools to Use
- Cast iron skillet or non-stick skillet
- Small bowl for seasoning
- Tongs or spatula for flipping
- Knife for slicing salmon (if desired)
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (skin on or off, based on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the seasoning adhere better and give you a crispier crust.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil or butter and allow it to melt, ensuring the surface of the pan is evenly coated.
- Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if the skin is on. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the salmon, until the exterior is blackened and crispy and the fish is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F).
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the skillet and serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top. Pair it with your favorite side, like rice, vegetables, or a salad.
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Best Easy Blackened Salmon
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or non-stick skillet
- Small bowl for seasoning
- Tongs or spatula for flipping
- Knife for slicing salmon (if desired)
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets skin on or off, based on preference
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the seasoning adhere better and give you a crispier crust.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil or butter and allow it to melt, ensuring the surface of the pan is evenly coated.
- Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if the skin is on. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the salmon, until the exterior is blackened and crispy and the fish is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F).
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the skillet and serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top. Pair it with your favorite side, like rice, vegetables, or a salad.
Tips for Cooking
- Even Seasoning: Make sure to evenly coat both sides of the salmon with the blackened seasoning for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Heat Control: Make sure the skillet is hot enough to create the blackened crust but not so hot that it burns the seasoning. Medium-high heat is ideal.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making more than two salmon fillets, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can affect the searing process.
- Use Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh or thawed salmon fillets. Frozen salmon can work but may not have the same crisp texture when seared.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This blackened salmon recipe is incredibly easy to make and packs a lot of flavors with just a few simple ingredients. It’s healthy, quick, and versatile, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The crispy seasoning combined with the tender salmon creates a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
We hope this easy blackened salmon recipe becomes one of your favorites! It’s quick, flavorful, and full of delicious spices that make for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a more formal meal, this blackened salmon is sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy!
