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Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce

Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce
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Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a quick and easy dish featuring tender salmon fillets coated in a bold, smoky blackening spice mix and topped with a rich, tangy, and creamy Dijon mustard sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe balances a crispy crust with smooth, vibrant flavors for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), fresh

Blackening Spice Mix

  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Cooking Fat

  • 2 tbsp butter or oil (for searing)

Creamy Dijon Sauce

  • 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for lighter option)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh dill or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Blackening Spice Mix: Combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to evenly blend the spices for a perfect blackened crust.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to help the spice rub adhere. Generously coat each fillet with the blackening spice mix, pressing the rub into the flesh to maximize flavor.
  3. Sear the Salmon: Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add butter or oil. When hot, place salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until a deep, charred crust forms and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Whip Up the Creamy Dijon Sauce: While the salmon cooks, whisk together Dijon mustard, heavy cream (or Greek yogurt), and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For smoother texture, warm the sauce gently on low heat before serving.
  5. Plate and Serve: Arrange the blackened salmon on plates, spoon the creamy Dijon sauce generously over each fillet, and garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for color and freshness.

Notes

  • Pat salmon dry before seasoning for a crispier crust.
  • Use a hot skillet to achieve an authentic blackened effect without overcooking.
  • Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and steaming the fish.
  • Fresh salmon provides the best flavor and texture.
  • The creamy Dijon sauce can be prepared ahead and warmed gently before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened salmon, creamy dijon sauce, quick salmon recipe, healthy salmon, spicy salmon, easy dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/blackened-salmon-with-creamy-dijon-sauce/