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Baked Blackened Salmon Recipe

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4 from 1 review

This Baked Blackened Salmon recipe delivers a flavorful, spicy crust using a homemade blackening spice blend, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The salmon is seasoned generously, then baked in a hot oven until tender and flaky, with optional fresh herbs and fruit salsa for a bright contrast.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salmon and Oil

  • 4 skin-on salmon filets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Blackening Spice Blend

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste, use 1/2 teaspoon for more heat)

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels. Arrange them evenly spaced on the baking sheet, then drizzle or brush the remaining tablespoon of olive oil evenly over the top of each filet.
  3. Mix Blackening Spices: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, light brown sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Adjust salt and cayenne amounts to your taste preferences.
  4. Apply Spice Rub: Evenly spoon the spice mixture over each salmon filet, pressing and patting it with your fingers to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
  5. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the salmon is crisped on top and flakes easily with a fork. The safe internal temperature to aim for is 145°F. Optionally rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
  6. Prepare Optional Fruit Salsa: While salmon bakes, you may prepare a quick fruit salsa to serve alongside the dish for a fresh contrast.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked salmon with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving, if desired.
  8. Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or allow to reach room temperature before eating.

Notes

  • Salmon tips: Use fresh, skin-on filets for best results. Wild-caught or farm-raised both work well.
  • The blackening spice blend is flexible—feel free to add or substitute spices like onion powder or dried thyme.
  • Adjust salt and cayenne pepper to suit your heat and flavor preference.
  • Fruit salsas such as mango or pineapple salsa complement the spice and richness of the salmon nicely.
  • Line your baking sheet with foil or parchment to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Overcooking salmon dries it out quickly, so watch baking time closely.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/baked-blackened-salmon-recipe/