Description
A quick and flavorful Blackened Salmon recipe featuring a smoky spice blend and a zesty Creole Lemon Dill Sauce, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or elegant meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Blackened Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on or off
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Creole Lemon Dill Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the blackening spice blend: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Generously rub the blackening spice mix onto all sides of the fillets, ensuring an even coating for a rich crust.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter. Allow it to heat until shimmering hot, but not smoking.
- Cook the salmon: Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, adjusting time based on thickness, until a dark, flavorful crust forms and the salmon is cooked just through.
- Make the Creole Lemon Dill Sauce: While the salmon cooks, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, minced garlic, and salt and pepper in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Plate the hot blackened salmon fillets and drizzle or dollop with the Creole Lemon Dill Sauce. Garnish with extra fresh dill or lemon slices if desired for a bright, elegant presentation.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
- For a lighter sauce, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Skin-on salmon helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a balanced meal.
- Ensure the skillet is hot to get a proper blackened crust without overcooking the fish.
