Infused with the bold and aromatic flavors of North Africa, this Spicy Cardamom Salmon is a true showstopper for seafood lovers. Perfectly seared salmon fillets get a flavorful spice rub featuring warm ground cardamom, smoky paprika, and a fiery touch of cayenne pepper, balanced by a luscious honey-lemon glaze that caramelizes to perfection. With its quick 15-minute prep and cook time, this recipe effortlessly combines ease with elegance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Garnished with fresh cilantro and paired beautifully with couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables, this dish brings a captivating blend of smoky, citrusy, and subtly sweet flavors to your table. Perfect for those seeking an exotic yet approachable dish, this recipe is a must-try for a North African-inspired culinary adventure.
In a small bowl, combine ground cardamom, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and black pepper to create the spice rub.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and evenly coat the flesh side of the salmon with the spice rub. Set aside.
In another small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, the juice and zest of one lemon, and minced garlic to create a glaze.
Heat a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked halfway up the sides.
Reduce the heat to medium, carefully flip the salmon, and brush the glaze generously over the cooked side. Let the salmon cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and caramelized.
Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your choice of couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Calories |
1257 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 81.3 g | 104% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.9 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 252 mg | 84% | |
| Sodium | 2574 mg | 112% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 46.8 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.5 g | ||
| Protein | 90.3 g | 181% | |
| Vitamin D | 52.6 mcg | 263% | |
| Calcium | 101 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1724 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.