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Cajun Blackened Salmon

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This Cajun Blackened Salmon is a quick and easy dish bursting with bold, spicy flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a crispy crust with juicy, flaky salmon inside, all ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until very hot.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to make the Cajun seasoning.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and rub each side with olive oil.
  4. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over each side of the salmon fillets, pressing gently so it adheres.
  5. Place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down (if skin-on), and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes.
  6. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Remove from skillet and let rest for a minute. Serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use fresh salmon for best results, but thawed frozen fillets will work too.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
  • This salmon pairs well with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.
  • A cast iron skillet works best to get a good blackened crust.

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