Nani's Easy Blackened Salmon
This blackened salmon is my go to recipe for a quick and smoky dinner that tastes like a vacation.
recipesbynani.comThis dish is inspired by a wonderful meal I enjoyed in Hawaii, and I am so happy to share my favorite version with you. The spice rub creates a dark, flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the salmon juicy and tender on the inside.
It is truly perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special but do not have hours to spend in the kitchen. My best tip is to get your pan nice and hot before you add the fish, as that is the secret to getting that perfect blackened sear.
🧺 Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
👩🍳Instructions
- 1
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and set them aside.
- 2
In a small bowl, stir together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- 3
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each salmon fillet.
- 4
Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat.
- 5
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon in the pan.
- 6
Cook the fish for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until the spices are dark and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
💡 Tips
Serve this salmon alongside some steamed asparagus or a fresh garden salad to keep the meal light. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and flake them over a salad for a quick lunch the next day.
Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.
You might also like
Quick Za'atar Beef and Greens Skillet
This flavorful skillet meal combines savory ground beef with aromatic za'atar and fresh greens for an easy dinner.
Creamy White Bolognese Pasta
A rich and comforting white meat sauce that feels fancy but is easy to make at home.
Classic American Chop Suey
This is a cozy, hearty comfort food classic that tastes even better as leftovers the next day.
Classic New Orleans Shrimp Po' Boys
These famous crispy fried shrimp sandwiches are stuffed with fresh toppings and a tangy remoulade sauce.