The Best Cajun Blackened Salmon Ever
Spice up dinner with *The Best Cajun Blackened Salmon Ever*, a bold, flavorful recipe that’s ready in just 20 minutes! Succulent salmon fillets are coated in a smoky, homemade Cajun spice blend featuring paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and a hint of cayenne for a perfectly balanced kick. Seared in a sizzling hot cast-iron skillet, the salmon develops a beautifully charred crust while staying tender and flaky inside. Finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon and optional parsley garnish, this dish is a stunning centerpiece that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad. Quick, easy, and loaded with zesty Southern flair, this blackened salmon will transport your taste buds straight to the bayou!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 4 pieces Lemon wedges (for serving)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (optional, finely chopped for garnish)
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the Cajun spice blend.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and brush them lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on both sides.
Sprinkle the Cajun spice blend generously over both sides of each salmon fillet, pressing the seasoning into the fish to ensure it adheres well.
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3-4 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Carefully place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down first, and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin crisps up and the spices begin to blacken slightly.
Flip the fillets gently with a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the flesh side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Pair with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1866 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 117.5 g | 151% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.2 g | 111% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 436 mg | 145% | |
| Sodium | 2263 mg | 98% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 47.1 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.9 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.0 g | ||
| Protein | 162.0 g | 324% | |
| Vitamin D | 81.5 mcg | 408% | |
| Calcium | 343 mg | 26% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 3231 mg | 69% | |
*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.
