Blackened Salmon: A Spicy and Healthy Pan-Seared Dish

I love experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients to create the perfect blackened salmon recipe.

When I’m cooking for myself or for others, I want to make sure that the dish is not only delicious, but also healthy and easy to make. Blackened salmon fits the bill perfectly it’s packed with protein, omega3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that are essential for a healthy diet.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of sides and flavors.

In this post, I’ll be sharing my favorite blackened salmon recipe, along with some tips and tricks for getting the perfect crust and cooking the fish to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, I hope you’ll find this recipe and guide helpful in creating a delicious and healthy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This blackened salmon recipe is a gamechanger for anyone who loves spicy food and is looking for a healthy and easy meal option. The combination of spices and herbs used in the blackening seasoning is absolutely perfect it adds a depth of flavor and a nice kick of heat that complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.

Plus, the fact that it’s panseared means that it’s quick and easy to cook, and can be ready in just a few minutes.

Ingredients

Here is everything you need to make this delicious blackened salmon recipe:

4 salmon fillets I like to use wildcaught salmon for this recipe, as it has a more robust flavor and texture than farmed salmon.

2 tablespoons blackening seasoning this is a blend of spices and herbs that gives the salmon its distinctive flavor and crust. You can make your own or use storebought.

1 tablespoon olive oil this is used to cook the salmon and add a bit of moisture to the dish.

1 lemon, cut into wedges this is used to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the salmon, which helps to brighten the flavors and add a bit of acidity.

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley this is used to add a bit of freshness and color to the dish. You can also use other herbs like dill or basil if you prefer.

Why These Ingredients

Salmon Fillets

Salmon is an incredibly versatile fish that can be cooked in a wide range of ways. For this recipe, I like to use wildcaught salmon because it has a more robust flavor and texture than farmed salmon.

It’s also packed with nutrients like protein, omega3 fatty acids, and vitamins, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.

I prefer to use salmon fillets for this recipe because they are easier to cook and more evenly sized than steaks. You can also use salmon steaks if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook.

When shopping for salmon, look for fillets that are fresh and have a nice pink color. You can also ask your fishmonger for recommendations or advice on the best type of salmon to use for this recipe.

Blackening Seasoning

Blackening seasoning is a blend of spices and herbs that gives the salmon its distinctive flavor and crust. It’s typically made with a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices, and can be found in most grocery stores or online.

I like to use a storebought blackening seasoning for this recipe because it’s convenient and easy to find. However, you can also make your own by mixing together your favorite spices and herbs.

Some other ingredients you might consider adding to your blackening seasoning include cayenne pepper, dried thyme, or dried oregano.

Instructions

Let me walk you through every step of this recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon start by rinsing the salmon fillets under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures that the salmon cooks evenly.

Step 2: Season the Salmon sprinkle both sides of the salmon fillets with the blackening seasoning, making sure to coat them evenly. You can also add a bit of salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

Step 3: Heat the Oil heat the olive oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking, as this can burn the salmon and create a bitter flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon add the salmon fillets to the skillet and cook for 34 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. You can also check the internal temperature of the salmon to ensure that it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F.

How To Serve

I love serving this blackened salmon with a variety of sides and flavors. Some of my favorite options include:

Rice and roasted vegetables this is a classic combination that pairs well with the spicy flavor of the blackened salmon.

Quinoa and steamed asparagus this is a healthier option that is packed with nutrients and fiber.

Grilled or sautéed spinach this adds a bit of freshness and color to the dish, and can help to balance out the richness of the salmon.

Lemon wedges and parsley these add a bit of brightness and freshness to the dish, and can help to cut through the spiciness of the blackening seasoning.

How To Keep Leftovers

Room Temperature

It’s not recommended to leave cooked salmon at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can allow bacteria to grow and create foodborne illness. If you need to store leftovers at room temperature, make sure to keep them in a covered container and refrigerate them as soon as possible.

Refrigerator

Cooked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in a covered container and keep it at a consistent refrigerated temperature of 40°F or below.

Freezer

Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag and label it with the date and contents.

When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the salmon in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave or oven.

Top Tips

Tips for Cooking Salmon

One of the most important things to keep in mind when cooking salmon is to not overcook it. This can make the fish dry and tough, and can also create a bitter flavor.

Instead, aim for a mediumrare or medium cooking temperature, and use a food thermometer to ensure that the salmon reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F.

Tips for Making Blackening Seasoning

If you’re making your own blackening seasoning, be sure to use a combination of spices and herbs that you enjoy. Some other ingredients you might consider adding include cayenne pepper, dried thyme, or dried oregano.

You can also adjust the amount of seasoning to taste, and add more or less of any ingredient to suit your preferences.

Tips for Serving Blackened Salmon

One of the best things about blackened salmon is its versatility. You can serve it with a wide range of sides and flavors, from rice and roasted vegetables to quinoa and steamed asparagus.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combinations and don’t hesitate to add your own twist to the recipe by using different seasonings or ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This blackened salmon recipe is a gamechanger for anyone who loves spicy food and is looking for a healthy and easy meal option. With its perfect combination of spices and herbs, and its crispy, spicy crust, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for others, I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of blackened salmon.