Are you ready to level up your seafood game? Look no further than blackened salmon, a Cajun-inspired culinary delight that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. With its crispy, peppery crust and tender, flaky flesh, this flavorful fish is the perfect canvas for a wide range of creative recipes.
From classic pairings with garlic butter sauce and avocado dressing, to bold fusion dishes like blackened salmon sushi rolls and sweet potato hash, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipe ideas that showcase the versatility of this spicy Cajun staple. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next cooking adventure.
Blackened Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of blackening seasoning with the creamy sweetness of garlic butter, creating a dish that’s both bold and indulgent. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and cook until melted.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Place salmon fillets in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Blackened Salmon Tacos
Take your taste buds on a wild ride with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of blackened salmon with the boldness of Cajun spices, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the blackening mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing blackened salmon on a warmed tortilla, topping with avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Blackened Salmon Salad with Avocado Dressing
A flavorful and healthy salad that combines the bold flavors of blackened salmon with creamy avocado dressing, all on a bed of fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, then finish cooking in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss mixed greens with lime juice and a pinch of salt.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to make the dressing.
6. Assemble the salad by placing cooked salmon on top of greens, then drizzling with avocado dressing and sprinkling with feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Salmon and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened salmon with the nutty goodness of quinoa, creating a satisfying and flavorful bowl perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, blackening seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of each fillet with the spice mixture.
5. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. To assemble the bowls, divide cooked quinoa among four bowls, then place a blackened salmon fillet on top. Garnish with chopped scallions and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened salmon with the sweetness and tanginess of a mango salsa, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
3. Dip each salmon fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add coated salmon fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until blackened.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl.
7. Serve blackened salmon with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Salmon Pasta with Creamy Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and rich recipe that combines the bold flavors of blackened salmon with a creamy alfredo sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of each fillet with the spice mixture.
5. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked pasta, blackened salmon, and creamy alfredo sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Salmon Sandwich with Spicy Aioli
Experience the perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors in this mouthwatering sandwich recipe. Crispy blackened salmon, creamy aioli, and crunchy lettuce come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices (optional)
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp sriracha sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with blackening seasoning and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading Spicy Aioli on the bottom bun, topping with a blackened salmon fillet, lettuce leaves, and tomato slices (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Salmon Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful combination of blackened salmon and roasted bell peppers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that’s both healthy and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a separate pan, cook salmon fillets with olive oil, cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until blackened, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked white rice, chopped parsley, and blackened salmon.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Salmon with Lemon Herb Rice
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of blackened salmon with the brightness of lemon and herbs, served atop a bed of savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then coat each with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until blackened.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix cooked rice with lemon juice and parsley.
7. Serve the blackened salmon atop the lemon herb rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Salmon and Asparagus Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the rich flavors of blackened salmon with the tender sweetness of asparagus, all cooked to perfection in one pan. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackened seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned.
4. Flip the salmon and add the asparagus. Sprinkle with blackened seasoning and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this bold and flavorful Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad. Spicy blackening seasoning adds a depth of flavor to the salmon, while creamy Caesar dressing brings everything together.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with blackening seasoning and olive oil.
3. Cook salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss chopped romaine lettuce with croutons and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Top with cooked salmon fillets and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Blackened Salmon with Coconut Lime Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, combining the boldness of blackening seasoning with the brightness of coconut lime sauce. Pan-seared salmon fillets are smothered in a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine coconut cream, lime juice, and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Serve blackened salmon with Coconut Lime Sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Salmon and Sweet Potato Hash
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this hearty recipe that combines the richness of blackened salmon with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, season salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Serve blackened salmon atop roasted sweet potato hash and garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blackened Salmon Sushi Rolls
Elevate your sushi game with this unique fusion of flavors, combining the richness of blackened salmon with the freshness of sushi rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade salmon fillet
– 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– Nori seaweed sheets (6-8)
– Sushi vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the salmon fillet with blackening seasoning and cook in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions, using a combination of Japanese short-grain rice and water.
4. Cut the cooked salmon into thin strips.
5. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Place two or three blackened salmon strips in the middle of the rice.
7. Roll the sushi using your hands or a bamboo mat, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
8. Slice into individual pieces and serve with sushi vinegar (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Salmon with Cilantro Lime Butter
Experience the bold flavors of the American South with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of blackening seasoning with the bright, citrusy notes of cilantro and lime.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with the mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned salmon. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with chopped cilantro and lime juice.
6. Serve the blackened salmon with the Cilantro Lime Butter spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Salmon and Black Bean Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the bold flavors of blackened salmon and black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. This recipe combines the richness of seafood with the comfort of Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Blacken the salmon fillets with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper for 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble quesadillas by placing blackened salmon, black beans, and shredded cheese onto tortillas.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Salmon with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful and nutritious combination that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe brings together the bold flavors of blackened salmon and the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the Brussels sprouts on the sheet in a single layer.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the sprouts and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. While the sprouts are roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the blackening seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve the blackened salmon with roasted Brussels sprouts and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Salmon and Corn Chowder
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackened salmon with the sweetness of corn in a hearty and comforting chowder.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 ears of corn, husked and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon with blackening seasoning; cook in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers in butter until tender.
4. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
5. Add corn to the chowder and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve blackened salmon on top of the corn chowder.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 mouth-watering blackened salmon recipes, all Cajun-style! From classic dishes like Blackened Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce to innovative creations like Blackened Salmon Sushi Rolls and Blackened Salmon and Sweet Potato Hash, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to elevate this flavorful fish with bold seasonings, tangy sauces, and international twists. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
