Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This oven-baked blackened salmon recipe is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated weekend dinner. Forget greasy pan-frying; this method delivers perfectly blackened, flaky salmon with minimal cleanup. It’s a true winner in the world of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet flavorful dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Blackening Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices. This homemade spice blend is key to achieving that authentic blackened flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels; this helps the seasoning adhere better.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and then generously coat both sides with the blackening spice mixture. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Blackened Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure enough space between the fillets for even cooking.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat. For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne or omit it altogether.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the salmon; it’s done when it flakes easily.
- Resting is important: Allowing the salmon to rest helps retain its juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Delicious Variations:
- Add some citrus zest: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the blackening seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
- Try different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Serve with a side: This blackened salmon pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a simple salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This oven-baked blackened salmon recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. It’s a healthy, delicious, and surprisingly simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!