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Quick Skillet Blackened Salmon

A close-up of a perfectly cooked piece of blackened salmon resting on a white plate, showing a dark spice crust.

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Make restaurant-quality blackened salmon quickly using a simple spice mix and skillet cooking method for a flavorful crust.

Ingredients

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  • 4 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high-heat oil
  • 2 tablespoons homemade blackened seasoning (see notes)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Mix the salt and pepper into your blackened seasoning blend.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This helps create a good crust.
  3. Generously coat all sides of each salmon fillet with the seasoning mixture, pressing it gently onto the fish.
  4. Heat the avocado oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers.
  5. Carefully place the salmon fillets presentation-side down (usually the top side) into the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes until a dark crust forms.
  7. Flip the salmon fillets gently. Reduce the heat to medium.
  8. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  9. Remove from the skillet and serve immediately.

Notes

  • To make a quick homemade blackened seasoning: Mix 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat), and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • For a lower-heat method, you can bake the seasoned salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes after briefly searing in the pan.
  • This dish pairs well with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a simple dill sauce.

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