Spicy Cardamom Salmon North African Inspired

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.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Salmon fillets (skin-on)
• 1 teaspoon Ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon Sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Honey
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 whole Lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine ground cardamom, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and black pepper to create the spice rub.

Step 2

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and evenly coat the flesh side of the salmon with the spice rub. Set aside.

Step 3

In another small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, the juice and zest of one lemon, and minced garlic to create a glaze.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

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.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(548.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1257.0

Total Fat 81.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 16.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 252mg	0%
Sodium 2574.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 46.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.9g	0%
Total Sugars 36.5g
Protein 90.3g	0%

Vitamin D 2104IU	0%
Calcium 101.2mg	0%
Iron 5.6mg	0%
Potassium 1724.5mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 57.2%

Protein: 28.2%

Carbs: 14.6%