Recipes for salmon are almost endless. There are so may ways to make salmon, however a family favorite is this recipe for Blackened Salmon. It doesn't get much easier or more flavorful than this quick and easy salmon recipe.

This Blackened Salmon recipe can be made in under 10 minutes. Enjoy as is or with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (my son's fav). Top it with an Avocado Crema, Spicy Watermelon Salsa, Mango Salsa or if you want some heat, Jalapeno Relish.

Even if you think you can't cook, this recipe for Blackened Salmon is so simple to make that even your 8-year-old can do it!

Bonus!! When kids cook or at least assist you in the kitchen, I promise you they will at least try whatever they helped make! Plus they chat and chat, it's a win-win!

Table of Contents

What is Blackening Seasoning

Similar to Cajun seasoning, blackening season is milder and made with a mix of dried herbs and spices. Cayenne pepper gives it a little kick. You can make your own blackening seasoning in minutes using ingredients like smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano and basil. When you make your own you can easily control both the sodium amount and the heat level.

My Favorite Blackening Seasoning

My personal favorite blackening seasoning is made by Chef Paul Prudhomme. Found in many grocery stores spice area or on Amazon. I am never without it!

I also enjoy Phillips Blackening Seasoning (made by Phillips Seafood) and Zatarian's Blackened Seasoning.

Ingredients for Blackened Salmon

Salmon
Blackening seasoning
Avocado or olive oil
Lemon wedges (optional)

Tips

Start with a nonstick pan or a well seasoned cast iron pan.
Pat your salmon dry, and season well on both sides with the blackening seasoning.
Heat your pan, add the oil and once oil shimmers (like ripples in water) carefully add your salmon. You want the pan hot, medium heat.
Cook skin side down first for 3 minutes or so, flip and cook another 90 seconds or so further until salmon is done to your liking. Serve skin side up if you'll eat the skin to keep it crisp (it is SO good for you).
Control your heat, you want this blackened, not burndt. Take off the heat if necessary to finish the cook.
A squeeze of fresh lemon give it the perfect balance.

For the best seasoned salmon, use blackening seasoning on the salmon. It's so quick and easy and it hits all of the notes.

Variations

Swap to Cajun or Creole seasoning for a slightly different flavor.
If you want it rather plain, simply season with salt and pepper, it wont blacken but it will cook nicely in your pan.

Other Salmon Recipes To Try

Originally published February, 2018. Updated 2023 with new images and text. Post contains Amazon Associate links which means I may receive a small compensation if items are ordered.

Enjoy! XO - Colleen