Blackened Salmon

I’m not going to lie to you, cooking fish at home used to scare me but not anymore. I have become a huge fish fan and this easy blackened salmon is my family’s all time favorite because of the flavor and easy it is to cook.

I have a feeling it might soon become a favorite of your family too! We love to make this recipe for an easy Friday Night Dinner Ideas. If you love salmon as much as we do, then try these recipes Honey Glazed Salmon Recipe, Baked Salmon with Orange Glaze, Lemon Dill Salmon, Lemon Garlic Salmon, Perfect Baked Salmon Every Time – Even for Beginners and air fryer salmon recipe.

Why is it Called Blackened Salmon?

This just means cooking at a high temperature with blackened seasoning. Placing the salmon in a skillet that high heat pan creates a dark, crispy texture on the salmon.

Combined with cajun spice blend which include sweet paprika, kosher salt, parsley, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, cayenne pepper and oregano. It all comes together for the best seasoning and the best Blackened Salmon. We have even used this seasoning on pork chops, shrimp and steak.

Give it a twist and make it with my salmon tacos.

Ingredients

• Salmon – I buy mine frozen from Sam’s. Thaw Salmon Fillets before cooking
• Blackening seasoning – Use my Homemade Blackened Seasoning Recipe. Combine the spices in a small bowl
• Vegetable Oil – Use any type of oil that you prefer such olive oil or avocado oil. We recommend using a high heat oil to lessen the smoke and burning smell

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and ingredients.

How to Make Blackened Salmon

Step 1 – I like to put the salmon on a plate to get it ready. Start by brushing the salmon with vegetable oil.

Step 2 – Grab a spoon and put the homemade blackened seasoning over the fish and spread around so that it is all covered.

Step 3 – Flip the fish over and season the other side.

Step 4 – Heat up a Large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat so it is really hot with oil or melted butter. Put the salmon on the hot cast iron pan and let it cook for a couple of minutes.

• Step 5 – Once that side is finished, flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until done.
• Step 6 – Remove the salmon and let it cool a a few minutes. This will be so tender and tastes amazing! We love to squeeze fresh lime juice over the top of the salmon right before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Cooking Salmon – It does not take long and usually only about 3 minutes. Make sure to time it and don’t move the fish, so it can get that beautiful blackened crust on it. This is important!
• Seasoning Salmon – I normally use about ½ tablespoon per fish but you add what you prefer. Just keep in mind the more you use, the spicier it will be and the less you use the milder it will be.
• Hot Skillet – For best results make sure to cook the cold salmon in a hot skillet.

Ways to Use Blackened Salmon

• Salad – Make a salad with your favorite toppings and put the salmon on top.
• Tacos – Salmon tacos are the best!
• Salmon Cakes – Chop up leftovers and make salmon cakes. This is similar to crab cakes and you just need to add breading and an egg until it is the right consistency. Fry until golden brown over medium heat.
• Sandwich – Enjoy on a hamburger bun and add lettuce and tomato. This makes a great lunch the next day.

What to Serve with Blackened Salmon

Turn this easy grilled blackened salmon recipe into a complete meal ready in less time than it takes to get take out!

Here are Side Dishes that you could serve with this cast iron skillet salmon to complete the meal. These blackened salmon veggies sides are delicious.

• How to Steam Broccoli in the Microwave
• Quick and Easy Instant Pot Potatoes Recipe {ready in 10 minutes}
• Quick and Easy Weeknight Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
• Oven Roasted Parmesan Asparagus
• The Best Coleslaw Recipe
• Butter Rice
• Cauliflower Rice
• Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
• Check out the Best Salmon Side Dishes

We also love to make a  microwave baked potato and it is so quick and simple!

Frequently Asked Questions