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A perfectly cooked blackened salmon fillet with a crispy crust

Proven way to grow a perfect Blackened Salmon meal

This recipe provides a proven method for cooking delicious blackened salmon. It's a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 ounces each, skin on or off
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Blackening Seasoning:
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Optional):
  • lemon wedges
  • fresh parsley, chopped
  • rice
  • asparagus
  • green beans

Equipment

  • Small bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Cast iron skillet
  • Tongs
  • Plate

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine all blackening seasoning ingredients in a small bowl, mixing well.
  2. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy crust.
Cooking
  1. Dip each salmon fillet into the melted butter, ensuring both sides are coated.
  2. Generously sprinkle the blackening seasoning over both sides of the salmon, pressing gently to adhere.
  3. Heat a heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke lightly.
  4. Carefully place the salmon fillets, seasoned-side down, in the hot skillet, cooking for 2-4 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
  5. Reduce heat if salmon is browning too quickly, and cook longer for thicker fillets.
Serving
  1. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, rice, asparagus, or green beans as desired.

Notes

Ensure good ventilation when blackening the salmon, as it can produce a fair amount of smoke. Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. A meat thermometer can be used to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).