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Easy Blackened Salmon Recipe

Two perfectly cooked fillets of blackened salmon resting on a white plate, showing a dark, spicy crust.
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Make this flavorful blackened salmon quickly for a satisfying weeknight seafood dinner. You get a bold Cajun crust while keeping the salmon tender inside.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)

Instructions

  1. Combine paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl to create the Cajun spice blend.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This helps achieve a better crust.
  3. Brush the melted olive oil or butter evenly over all sides of each salmon fillet.
  4. Generously coat each fillet with the spice blend, pressing the seasoning firmly onto the fish.
  5. Heat a heavy, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat until it is very hot. You want the pan hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  6. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets into the hot, dry skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  7. Sear the salmon for 3 to 4 minutes without moving it to develop the signature blackened crust.
  8. Flip the fillets carefully. If your fillets are thick (over 1 inch), transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven and bake for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. If fillets are thin, continue cooking on the stovetop for 2 to 3 minutes more.
  9. Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For the best crust, use a cast-iron skillet and let it get very hot before adding the fish.
  • If you prefer crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down first and cook for 4 minutes before flipping.
  • Serve this quick blackened fish dinner with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/blackened-salmon-recipe-quick-cajun-dinner/