If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal option, blackened salmon is definitely the way to go. Although it may sound fancy, it’s actually quite simple to make and requires just a few basic ingredients. In this article, we’ll be sharing with you the steps you need to take to cook delicious blackened salmon right at home. With these simple steps, you’ll have a mouth-watering salmon dish in no time!

Cook Delicious Blackened Salmon with These Simple Steps | Eat Urban Garden — Cook Delicious Blackened Salmon with These Simple Steps

What is Blackened Salmon?

Blackened salmon is a Cajun-inspired dish that involves searing salmon fillets in a cast-iron skillet with a special spice blend until the surface of the fish is charred and crispy. The key to achieving that perfect blackened crust is to use a high heat method such as searing or grilling, and to season the salmon fillets with a flavorful blend of spices. Traditionally, blackened salmon is made with a mixture of paprika, cumin, thyme, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, which is rubbed onto the fish before it’s cooked.

Common Variations

While the basic recipe for blackened salmon is fairly simple, there are many variations on this classic dish. Some chefs like to add additional spices or flavorings to the seasoning blend, such as onion powder, chili powder, or smoked paprika. Others may use different types of fish instead of salmon, such as snapper or catfish. You can also experiment with different cooking methods to achieve different textures and flavors – for example, grilling the salmon instead of searing it will give it a smokier taste.

What Are the Benefits of Eating Salmon?

Salmon is not only a delicious fish to eat but also provides a range of health benefits that make it a great addition to any diet. Here are some of the benefits of eating salmon:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and can lower the risk of heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Eating just two servings of salmon per week can provide enough omega-3 fatty acids to meet the recommended weekly intake.

Protein

Salmon is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein is also important for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. In fact, salmon is one of the best sources of protein because it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs to function.

Vitamin B12

One serving of salmon provides more than 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12, which is essential for a healthy nervous system and can help prevent anemia. Vitamin B12 is also important for brain function, DNA synthesis, and the production of red blood cells.

Supports Immune Health

Salmon contains antioxidants, such as selenium, that help protect cells from damage and boost the immune system. The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can also reduce inflammation, which can help prevent and fight infections.

What Ingredients Do You Need to Make Blackened Salmon?

To make blackened salmon, you’ll need four main ingredients. These include:

Salmon Fillets

The first ingredient you’ll need is fresh salmon fillets. Salmon can either be bought fresh or frozen. When selecting salmon fillets, make sure that they are perfectly cleaned and with no bones for the perfect cooking experience.

Cajun Spice Blend

The next ingredient is a Cajun spice blend. You can either purchase this spice blend or make it homemade with your preferred blend of spices like cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper that will add a perfect kick to your salmon.

Olive Oil and Butter

You will also need olive oil and butter for this recipe. The olive oil helps to prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan while the butter gives it its rich and delicious flavor. It’s important to note that you can substitute butter with ghee or clarified butter for the perfect flavor if you wish so.

What Are the Steps to Make Blackened Salmon?

Blackened salmon is a delicious and healthy dish that can be easily prepared with a few simple steps. Here’s what you need to know:

Prep the Fish

The first step to making blackened salmon is to prepare the fish. Start by rinsing the salmon fillets in cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Then, skin the salmon fillets and cut them into portions that are about 6 ounces each.

Coat the Salmon in Spice Blend

The next step is to coat the salmon fillets in the spice blend. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 tablespoon of dried thyme, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Then, coat the salmon fillets in the spice mixture, making sure to press the spices onto the fish so that they stick.

Heat a Cast-Iron Skillet to High

Before you start cooking the salmon, you’ll need to heat a cast-iron skillet to high. This is important because the skillet needs to be very hot in order to create the blackened effect on the outside of the fish. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to smoke.

Sear the Salmon Fillets

Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the spices form a crust on the outside of the fish. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

Flip and Finish in the Oven

After searing the salmon fillets, flip them over and place the skillet in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. You can check if the salmon is done by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish and checking if it flakes easily.

What Are Some Tips for Making Perfect Blackened Salmon?

If you want to make perfect blackened salmon, there are a few tips you should follow.

1. Use Fresh and High-Quality Salmon

The first thing you need to do to ensure your blackened salmon turns out perfectly is to use fresh, high-quality salmon. Look for salmon that is firm to the touch and has a bright, vibrant color. Avoid any that look dull or have a grayish color.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

When cooking blackened salmon, it’s important not to overcrowd the pan. Doing so will cause the salmon to steam, which can prevent it from becoming crispy and flavorful. Instead, cook the salmon in batches if necessary or use a larger pan to ensure that the salmon has plenty of room to cook evenly.

3. Allow Enough Time for the Skillet to Get Hot

Before adding the salmon to the skillet, it’s crucial to allow enough time for the skillet to get hot. This will help ensure the salmon becomes crispy and caramelized on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside.

4. Adjust the Cooking Time Based on the Thickness of the Fish

The cooking time for blackened salmon will vary depending on the thickness of the fish. As a general rule, you should cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side for each Â½ inch of thickness. For example, if your salmon fillet is an inch thick, you should cook it for 6-8 minutes per side.

5. Season the Salmon Generously

When cooking blackened salmon, it’s important to season the fish generously with a flavorful blend of spices. You can use a store-bought blackened seasoning mix or create your own by combining paprika, cumin, thyme, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Apply the seasoning mixture evenly to both sides of the salmon, making sure to press the spices into the fish for maximum flavor.

By following these tips, you can make delicious, restaurant-quality blackened salmon right in your own kitchen.

What Are Some Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Blackened Salmon?

Blackened salmon is a delectable dish that offers a punch of flavor. But what should you serve with it to complement the dish and make it a complete meal? Here are some delicious side dish options that will make your blackened salmon dish a whole lot better:

Roasted Veggies

Roasted veggies are an excellent option to serve with blackened salmon. You can roast any vegetables that you like, such as broccoli, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and makes them tender. Plus, the char on the veggies adds an earthy dimension to the dish, making it more complex and satisfying.

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is an excellent choice for a side dish because it is easy to make and complements the flavors of blackened salmon well. The nuttiness of the rice and the texture of the grains work well with the rich and bold blackened salmon. You can add some herbs and spices to the rice to enhance its flavor, too.

Quinoa Salad

If you want to have a light and refreshing side dish that is perfect for summer, quinoa salad is a great choice. Quinoa is high in protein and has a distinct nutty flavor that works well with the spicy and smoky flavors of blackened salmon. You can add cucumbers, tomatoes, or any vegetables that you like to the salad to make it more colorful and nutritious.

Coleslaw

A classic coleslaw is a great side dish for blackened salmon. The crispness and tanginess of the coleslaw provide a nice contrast to the spicy and bold flavors of the salmon. Plus, coleslaw is creamy, which complements the smoky flavor of blackened salmon perfectly.

Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing

If you want a lighter side dish that doesn’t take too much effort, a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing is a great choice. You can use any greens that you like, such as arugula, spinach, or mixed greens. The lemony vinaigrette dressing adds a burst of flavor to the dish and complements the blackened salmon nicely.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a heartier side dish that will fill you up, garlic mashed potatoes are an excellent choice. The creaminess and richness of the mashed potatoes go well with the bold flavors of the blackened salmon. You can add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mashed potatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

Thank You for Reading! Come Back Soon for More Delicious Recipes!

Now that you know how to make delicious blackened salmon, it’s time to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills! We hope you enjoyed reading our simple steps and that you have a great time cooking. Don’t hesitate to come back and visit us for more mouthwatering recipes!