Discover a delicious and straightforward Easy Blackened Salmon Recipe packed with flavor! This quick and healthy dish features perfectly seasoned salmon fillets seared to perfection, making it a delightful option for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Enjoy a taste of the South with minimal prep and cook time!

Lately, I have been trying to eat healthier, so I’ve started cooking meals that are better for me. One of my favorite recipes is blackened salmon. It’s easy to make and surprisingly tasty. The blackening process involves a seasoning mixture that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the fresh taste of the salmon. The spices are well-balanced and not overpowering.

Salmon is known for its rich flavor and health benefits, and blackened salmon is a standout preparation. “Blackened” is a unique cooking style that gives the fish a smoky, slightly spicy, charred flavor. We’ll explore the reasons behind the name, how to achieve the perfect black crust, and discuss its health benefits. Additionally, we’ll compare it to grilled salmon to help you choose the best way to prepare your next meal!

Why I love this recipe

The spices consisted of a simple mixture you may already have.
Customizable: You can adjust the taste and spiciness of this recipe to your liking. For example, I add half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you prefer it to be spicier, add an extra pinch. You can make it saltier or more sour by adding the appropriate ingredients.
Perfect leftovers and Meal prep—salmon is even better the next day, so this is perfect for packed lunches and meal prep.

What Do You Use to Blacken Salmon?

To blacken salmon, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

Salmon fillets: Fresh, skinless fillets work best.
Spices: The foundation of the “blackened” flavor is a mixture of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Butter: A high-smoke-point oil-like vegetable or clarified butter (ghee) is ideal for searing.

How to Make Blackened Salmon at Home

Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This ensures the spice mixture sticks and helps with achieving that crispy crust.
Season the Fish: Mix the spices and coat the salmon fillets.

Heat the Pan: Preheat your cast-iron skillet over high heat until it smokes. Add a tablespoon of butter or oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. You want the fish to develop a dark, crisp crust while remaining tender.
Serve: Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving. Enjoy it with a squeeze of lemon or a side of fresh veggies.

Tips for Perfect Blackened Salmon

Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook salmon fillets in batches if needed.
Ensure an internal temperature of 145°F using a meat thermometer.
Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
Pat salmon dry for better butter adherence.
Sear flesh side for 3-5 minutes on medium-low heat, undisturbed.
Gently check doneness; flip with a spatula for even cooking.
Turn off the heat and let the salmon rest in the skillet.
Serve with salad or sweet potatoes and tomatoes.

Variations and Additions to Enhance the Dish

To mix things up, add a drizzle of honey or mustard to your spice mix for a sweet and tangy twist. You can also serve your blackened salmon with rice, sautéed greens, or a refreshing salad.

Is Salmon Better Grilled or Blackened?

Comparing the Cooking Methods

Grilling and blackening are two popular methods for cooking salmon, but they offer different results. Grilling imparts a smoky flavor and produces a firmer texture, while blackening creates a crispy, flavorful crust. The choice ultimately depends on your preference.

Flavor Differences Between Grilled and Blackened Salmon

Grilled salmon offers a more subtle flavor, primarily enhanced by the smokiness from the grill. In contrast, blackened salmon provides a bold, spicy kick due to its seasoning and charred exterior. Blackened salmon is the better choice if you’re looking for something more intense.

FAQs

What is the difference between blackened and grilled salmon?

Blackened salmon has a charred crust from high heat, while grilled salmon has a smokier, subtler flavor.

Can I use other fish for blackening?

Firm fish like tilapia, trout, or red snapper can also be blackened.

How spicy is blackened salmon?

The spiciness varies based on the cayenne pepper used; you can adjust it to your taste.

Can I make blackened salmon without a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, any heavy-bottomed pan will work if it gets hot.

Pin It Now

Easy Blackened salmon

Easy Blackened salmon is a delicious dish that features rich, smoky, and spicy flavors while offering the nutritional benefits of salmon. The crispy blackened crust and tender interior create a flavor experience that's hard to beat. Fire up your skillet for a healthy and tasty meal!

No ratings yet

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 15

Servings: people

Author: Shobee

Equipment

1 spatula
1 9 inch- cast iron
1 Plate

Ingredients

2 pieces Salmon Fillet

Blackened Seasoning Mix

1 tbsp Paprika
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Sugar
2 1/2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
1 Lemon cut into wedges
Fresh thyme for Garnishing, optional

Instructions

Place the salmon fillet on a plate flesh side up. Pat dry with a paper towel.
In a bowl, combine all of the Blackened seasoning ingredients.
In a separate bowl, melt the butter. Brush the butter over the flesh side of the salmon fillet. Sprinkle the seasoning on top of the butter and gently press to adhere to the seasoning.
Heat a large cast iron pan. There is no need to add oil. Once the pan is completely hot, you can tell by drppinga droplet of water and if it starts swirling, it is hot enough.
Place the salmon flesh down and let it cook undisturb for three minutes, or until the flesh is blackened. Take a gentle peek and very gently turn the salmon. Cook the skin side for five minutes.
Continue cooking the salmon on medium heat and cook both sides until the salmon is cooked through. This takes about eight minutes. Slowly turn the salmon on all sides.
Once done, sprinkle the salmon with lemon. Leave the salmon in the cast iron to continue cooking.

Tried this recipe?Mention @theskinnypot or tag #theskinnypot!

Welcome!

Hi, my name is Shobee. Welcome to The Skinny Pot, where we cook Easy Recipes from the available ingredients from our pantry and fridge! We’re your go-to source for simple and delicious recipes that make the most of what you already have at home. Talk about the pantry challenge. Read more...