Are you craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This simple blackened salmon recipe with green pepper is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and boasts a beautiful presentation that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Get ready to experience the magic of blackened seasoning!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Homemade Blackening Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (or less, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
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Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the blackening seasoning adhere better. Season both sides of the salmon generously with salt, pepper, and half of the blackening seasoning.
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Sauté the Green Pepper: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced green pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Remove the green pepper from the skillet and set aside.
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Blacken the Salmon: Add the seasoned salmon fillets to the same skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
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Combine and Serve: Return the sautéed green pepper to the skillet with the cooked salmon. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Blackened Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will lower the temperature and steam the salmon instead of blackening it.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackening seasoning.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of the salmon and the freshness of the green pepper will greatly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like onions, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the green pepper.
- Use different proteins: This recipe works well with other firm white fish like cod or mahi-mahi.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the blackening seasoning for extra heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the blackened salmon with your favorite sides, such as quinoa, rice, or a simple salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy recipe for blackened salmon with green pepper provides a quick and healthy meal option perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish – it's one of the best recipes for a flavorful and nutritious dinner!