This blackened salmon features bold spices and a crispy, charred crust with tender inside. Great for dinner.
Author:Emily Cookson
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Blackening
Cuisine:Cajun
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets, 6 ounces each, skin-on
1 tablespoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of brown sugar (light or dark)
1 teaspoon of kosher salt
¾ teaspoon of onion powder
¾ teaspoon of garlic powder
½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon of dried oregano
½ teaspoon of dried thyme
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Chopped fresh parsley or thyme, for serving
Instructions
Prepare Your Spices: Combine paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. Aim for a rich and slightly spicy aroma.
Season the Salmon: Lightly brush olive oil over the salmon fillets. Coat them evenly with the blackening spices for a generous, flavorful crust.
Preheat Your Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until it’s lightly smoking. The skillet should be very hot.
Cook the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, looking for a dark, crisp crust.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145°F. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily.
Optional Sauce: Elevate the dish by creating a quick butter sauce in the same skillet by melting butter with lemon juice and herbs.