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Easy Blackened Salmon with Bold Cajun Crust

Close-up of a thick, perfectly cooked blackened salmon fillet resting on a white plate.
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Make restaurant style salmon at home with this easy blackened salmon recipe. You get a perfectly seared, flaky salmon fillet with a bold, spicy crust using a simple homemade blackening spice blend. This quick seafood meal is ready in under 25 minutes.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl to make the blackening spice blend. Mix well.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This helps create a better crust.
  3. Brush the top and sides of each salmon fillet lightly with the melted olive oil or butter.
  4. Generously coat all sides of the salmon fillets with the blackening spice blend, pressing the seasoning onto the fish.
  5. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. A cast iron skillet gives you the best sear.
  6. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets into the hot skillet. If using skin-on fillets, place them skin-side down first.
  7. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes on the first side until a dark crust forms. Do not move the fish while it is searing.
  8. Flip the salmon fillets gently and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
  9. Remove the blackened salmon from the skillet and serve immediately with your choice of side dish.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy skin salmon, ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the fish, and do not overcrowd the pan.
  • If you prefer a less spicy flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper in the seasoning blend or omit it entirely.
  • This bold flavored salmon pairs well with simple sides like white rice or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://frostedfancies.com/blackened-salmon-recipe-easy-quick-dinner/