Quick Spicy Blackened Salmon Recipe
A quick and easy blackened salmon recipe with a smoky, spicy crust and tender, juicy fish, ready in 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless, about 6 ounces (170 g) each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well blended.
- Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil on all sides. Sprinkle the spice blend generously over the salmon, pressing gently so it adheres well.
- Place a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat and warm for 3-4 minutes until hot but not smoking excessively.
- Carefully place the fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until edges turn opaque and crust forms.
- Flip the fillets gently using a fish spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness (internal temperature around 125°F/52°C). Add 1-2 minutes if you prefer well-done.
- Transfer the salmon to a plate and let it rest for 2 minutes. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy crust. Adjust cayenne pepper to control heat level. Use a hot cast iron skillet for best blackened crust. Let salmon rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (abo
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 34
Keywords: blackened salmon, spicy salmon, quick salmon recipe, easy salmon, Cajun salmon, healthy dinner, weeknight meal