Blackened Salmon

This Blackened Salmon recipe delivers perfectly seasoned fillets with a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. The blend of spices creates a robust flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the natural richness of salmon.

Ingredients:

Blackening Seasoning:

• 3 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 ½ tsp garlic powder
• 2 ½ tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 ½ tsp coarse salt
• 1 ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (more or less to taste)

Salmon:

• 4 skin-on salmon fillets, 6-8 oz each
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1-2 tbsp canola oil for cooking
• 4 lime wedges for serving

Directions:

Prepare Salmon:

1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients for the blackening seasoning and whisk well. Set aside.
2. Melt the butter and set it aside as well.
3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.

Cooking Salmon:

1. Place a large skillet over medium heat (adjust slightly below medium if necessary). Preheat the skillet for about 5 minutes.
2. While the pan is heating, season each salmon fillet. Brush melted butter over the top and sides of each fillet, then coat with the blackening seasoning, ensuring all sides are covered.
3. Spread canola oil evenly over the bottom of the preheated skillet.
4. Place the seasoned salmon fillets flesh side down in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Carefully flip the fillets skin side down and continue cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes, adjusting for thicker fillets if needed.
6. Remove the salmon from the pan, let it rest for 5 minutes, and serve with lime wedges.

How to Tell if Salmon is Cooked:

• Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, but for a medium or medium-well texture, aim for 125°F-130°F.
• Alternatively, test doneness by gently pressing the flesh with your finger; it should feel firm and spring back.
• The salmon should also flake easily when gently pressed with a fork.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Serving and Storage Tips:

When serving Blackened Salmon, consider these tips to enhance your dining experience and preserve leftovers:

1. Presentation: Garnish each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a vibrant touch. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors.
2. Accompaniments: Alongside lime wedges, consider offering additional condiments such as tartar sauce, aioli, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish.
3. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.
4. Meal Prep: Prepare the blackening seasoning ahead of time and store it in a sealed container for up to 1 month. This makes it easy to season salmon or other fish whenever you want a quick and flavorful meal.
5. Creative Uses: Use leftover blackened salmon in salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a delicious and protein-packed meal on the go.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Blackened Salmon remains flavorful, moist, and enjoyable from the first bite to the last.

Variations:

Explore these creative twists to customize your Blackened Salmon recipe:

1. Citrus Zest: Add zest from an orange or lemon to the blackening seasoning for a citrusy kick. This enhances the flavor profile with a refreshing twist.
2. Herb Infusion: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or chives into the melted butter before brushing it onto the salmon. This adds a herbaceous note to each bite.
3. Sweet and Spicy: Increase the amount of brown sugar in the blackening seasoning for a sweeter profile, balanced with a bit more cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
4. Smoky Twist: Incorporate a touch of smoked sea salt into the seasoning mix to amplify the smoky flavor. Smoked paprika can also be increased for a deeper smokiness.
5. Asian Fusion: Replace some of the traditional spices with Asian-inspired flavors such as ground ginger, soy sauce, and a pinch of sesame seeds. Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables.
6. Grilled Variation: Instead of cooking in a skillet, grill the salmon fillets over medium-high heat on a preheated grill. This imparts a charred, smoky flavor that complements the blackening seasoning.
7. Creamy Sauce: Serve the blackened salmon with a creamy sauce such as a dill yogurt sauce or a garlic aioli. Drizzle over the top or serve on the side for dipping.
8. Seafood Tacos: Flake the blackened salmon and use it as a filling for soft tacos. Top with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh and satisfying meal.
9. Mango Salsa: Top the blackened salmon with a refreshing mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of jalapeño for a sweet and spicy contrast.
10. Pesto Crust: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto over the seasoned salmon fillets before cooking. This adds a burst of herbal flavor and creates a delicious crust when cooked.
11. Coconut Curry: Infuse the salmon with exotic flavors by brushing it with a mixture of coconut milk and red curry paste before applying the blackening seasoning. Serve with steamed jasmine rice.
12. Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey over the seasoned salmon before cooking for a subtle sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as the fish cooks.

These variations allow you to experiment with different flavors and techniques while maintaining the essence of a delicious Blackened Salmon dish.

FAQs :

1. Can I use skinless salmon fillets for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use skinless salmon fillets if preferred. Adjust cooking times slightly as skinless fillets may cook faster.
2. Is there a substitute for canola oil in cooking the salmon?
   • Yes, you can use other high-heat oils such as vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even olive oil if you prefer.
3. How spicy is the blackening seasoning?
   • The spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper used. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. Can I prepare the blackening seasoning in advance?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the seasoning mix and store it in an airtight container for up to a month for convenience.
5. What should I serve with blackened salmon?
   • It pairs well with rice pilaf, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. The lime wedges also add a nice citrusy touch.
6. How can I prevent the salmon from sticking to the skillet?
   • Make sure the skillet is adequately preheated and evenly coated with oil before adding the salmon. Avoid moving the fillets excessively while cooking.
7. How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
   • Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F for fully cooked salmon. Alternatively, the flesh should flake easily with a fork.
8. Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it?
   • Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
9. How long can leftovers be stored and reheated?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
10. What are some other ways to use leftover blackened salmon?
    • Use it in wraps, salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for pasta. It adds protein and flavor to various dishes.

These FAQs should help address common queries about preparing, serving, and storing blackened salmon for a delicious dining experience.

Mastering the art of blackened salmon not only results in a flavorful and tender dish but also offers versatility and creativity with various seasoning and cooking methods. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or served alongside your favorite sides, this recipe guarantees a delightful culinary experience that is both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy the robust flavors and tender texture of blackened salmon for a meal that never fails to impress.