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!

Nutriscore Rating: 58/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

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)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and brush them lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on both sides.

Step 3

Sprinkle the Cajun spice blend generously over both sides of each salmon fillet, pressing the seasoning into the fish to ensure it adheres well.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Step 8

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

Serving size	(226.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	564.0

Total Fat 44.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 72.7mg	0%
Sodium 2423.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 16.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 6.7g	0%
Total Sugars 3.9g
Protein 28.8g	0%

Vitamin D 543.6IU	0%
Calcium 102.4mg	0%
Iron 3.8mg	0%
Potassium 759.0mg	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: 68.7%

Protein: 19.9%

Carbs: 11.4%