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Adding spice is one of the best ways to enjoy seafood recipes — I often like dishes with bold flavors, such as Cajun Baked Cod or citrus jerk salmon. this blackened salmon recipe Using a lively spice blend, it only takes a few minutes of preparation to add flavor, texture and aroma.
For the blackened salmon seasoning I chose the same blackened seasoning I use blackened chicken。 It works equally well with fish, creating a dark, flavorful crust while keeping the inside moist and flaky. This simple yet impressive dish can be made in just 20 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Black Salmon Recipe
- spicy, smoky
- Black skin, crispy
- soft, flaky interior
- simple ingredients
- Can be done in just 20 minutes

Ingredients and Substitutes
This section explains how to choose the best ingredients for seared blackened salmon, what each ingredient does in the recipe, and substitution options.For measurements, see recipe card below.
Blackened Salmon Seasoning:
You can technically use store bought blackened seasoning, but I prefer to make my own Homemade Blackened Seasoning. This includes:
- chili – you will need both bell pepper and smoked paprika。 One offers a sweeter flavor to quell the heat, while the other adds a subtle smokiness.
- sea salt – My Blackened Salmon Seasoning contains the perfect ratio of salt to help tenderize the fish and add just the right amount of flavor. If you’re using a store-bought unsalted version, add 3/4 teaspoon of sea salt per pound of fish.
- spices – In addition to other blackened salmon spices, you will need onion powder and garlic powder for this mix. Use high-quality spices for the best flavor.
- black pepper – Black pepper, crushed red pepper flakesand chili Adds warmth and a spicy flavor.
- herbs – you will need dried thyme and dried oregano. Both intensify the other flavors in the seasoning. I don’t recommend using fresh herbs to flavor this blackened salmon recipe, but you can sprinkle some on top after cooking.
salmon:
To cook the salmon itself, all you need is the salmon and the oil:
- salmon fillet – Choose skin-on fillets for easier cooking and maximum flavor, even if you choose not to eat the skin. (in my fried salmon back. ) However, skinless would also work for this recipe with black salmon.
- olive oil – saute. You can also use avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil you like. You can also add butter after flipping for extra flavor.

How to Make Blackened Salmon
This section shows how to cook blackened salmon, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique to help you visualize it.For full instructions, including amounts and temperatures, see recipe card below.
- Pat dry. Pat salmon dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick and also helps the fish develop a nice crust on the outside.
- Mix in the blackened salmon seasoning. In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, smoked paprika, sea salt, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
- Season the fish. Sprinkle spice mixture over each side of salmon fillets.


- Cook the black salmon. warm up a big cast iron skillet or non stick pan Medium fire. Add olive oil. Place the salmon fillets, skin side down, into the skillet. Cook until the edges turn pale pink.
- Flip and finish cooking. Cook the salmon on the other side until blackened and the fillets flake easily with a fork. Serve with freshly squeezed lime juice (or lemon juice).


Tips for the Best Blackened Salmon
Follow these easy tips to enjoy restaurant-quality meals!
- You can double or triple the seasoning. my batch Blackened Seasoning Recipe (instead of separate seasonings) can be used in different recipes. Use only 2 tablespoons for the entire recipe (2 teaspoons per fillet).
- Season the salmon just before searing. To ensure juicy salmon, wait until just before cooking to season it.
- Press down on the salmon fillets for 10 seconds to keep them from curling. To prevent salmon from curling while cooking, lightly press salmon for 10 seconds after adding to pan. This will ensure they cook evenly and keep their shape.
- Most of the time it will be meat side up. Flipping with the skin side down will be easier and will also prevent the fish from drying out. Flip it over to get the top black.
- Be patient and don’t force the salmon to flip. If the salmon does not turn easily, it is not ready to be turned. Give it extra time to cook before trying again.
- Do not overcook. For best results, use the meat thermometer Insert the thickest part of the fish. The ideal internal temperature for salmon is 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit.
storage instructions
- shop: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- Reheat: You can reheat this dish in the microwave, but it won’t dry out if you reheat it on the stove (5-7 minutes, with some extra oil, over low heat). Don’t heat it for too long so it doesn’t dry out.
- freeze: Place in shallow freezer safe containers or wrap in plastic and store in freezer bags. Salmon can be kept frozen for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Serve with Blackened Salmon
This fish can be served with many side dishes! Here are some ideas:
- side salad – I served this blackened salmon recipe with a simple mixed greens and cherry tomato salad. A Grated Carrot Saladfresh Spring Mixed Salador salty Roasted Vegetable Salad Also goes well with this dish.
- meal salad – If eaten as a salad topping, this amount of salmon will make 3-4 salads.top Green Goddess Salad Use the fillets for an easy blackened salmon salad.
- tacos – Serve with your favorite tortillas, avocado and Taco Salad.
- roasted vegetables – Oven Roasted Green Beanssimple Grilled Zucchinishow stop Whole Roasted Cauliflower (or just plain Roasted Cauliflower), or crispy Roasted Kale Make a delicious, healthy side dish for salmon with blackened seasoning.
- Potato – with traditional mashed potatoes (or Mashed Cauliflower), Golden baked beansbid Instant Pot Baked Potatoesor caramelization Roasted Sweet Potatoes. For a lighter side, try Roasted Kohlrabi.
- rice flour – Prepare your favorite kind, or try Cauliflower Fried Ricebid Zucchini Noodlesor easy Oven Roasted Spaghetti Squash.
More Easy Salmon Recipes
i have dozens fish recipes, but salmon is one of my favorite foods to prepare. Try these dishes for an easy delicious meal!
Blackened Salmon Recipe (Easy, 20 Minutes!)
This easy blackened salmon recipe cooks flaky fish with the best blackened salmon seasoning and a perfect crust in just 20 minutes.
Prepare: 10 minute
chef: 10 minute
all: 20 minute
Serving Size: 4 (adjust according to recipe)
raw material
Click on the underlined ingredients to see where to get them. Please turn off Safari reader mode to view ingredients.
instruct
Click a time in the instructions below to start the kitchen timer while you cook.
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Pat salmon dry with paper towels.
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In a small bowl, combine blackened seasoning spices: sweet paprika, smoked paprika, sea salt, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
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Sprinkle the seasoning around the sides of the salmon fillets, about 2 teaspoons per fillet.
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warm up a big cast iron skillet (or non-stick pan) for 2 minutes Heat over medium heat. Add olive oil. Place the salmon fillets, skin side down, into the skillet. Press down on top of each fillet for 10 seconds immediately after adding to pan.Cook 6 minutes until the edges are light pink.Flip the blackened salmon over and cook another 2 minutesuntil the other side darkens and the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C).
recipe notes
Serving Size: 1 blackened salmon fillet
nutrient content
Amount per serving. Serving sizes in recipe instructions above.
calories 308
fat 17.7 grams
protein 34.1 grams
total carbohydrates 1.4 grams
net carbs 0.7 grams
fiber 0.7 grams
sugar 0.2 grams
Nutrition facts are provided politely. Questions about calculations or why are you getting different results?Please see our nutrition policy.
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