Introduction
Looking for an easy and delicious dinner option? Look no further! This Baked Blackened Salmon is a mouthwatering dish that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. Made with olive oil, butter, garlic, and blackening seasoning, it’s a keto and gluten-free recipe that is sure to impress!
What is Blackened Salmon?
Blackening is a cooking style used in Cajun cuisine, popularized by Chef Paul Prudhomme. By combining high heat, browned milk solids from butter, and charred spices, this technique creates a flavorful brown-black crust on the salmon.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this baked blackened salmon, you’ll only need a few pantry staples:
- Salmon: I recommend using a whole filet with the skin on.
- Olive oil: If you prefer, you can substitute it with mild vegetable oil or butter.
- Unsalted butter: Feel free to skip it or use dairy-free butter.
- Garlic: Finely grate some garlic to spread over the salmon filet.
- Blackening seasoning: I use a homemade blend made from paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasonings, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Some recipes include chili pepper and brown sugar, but I find them unnecessary. The blackening method relies on high heat and spices to achieve that brown-black salmon color. No marinade is needed for this oven-baked salmon recipe!
Is Blackened Salmon Healthy?
Absolutely! This dish consists of just salmon, oil, butter, and spices. It’s a healthy protein option that can be served with cooked vegetables or any other side of your choice.
What’s in Blackened Seasoning?
Blackened seasoning recipes may vary slightly, but commonly include onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, cayenne, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. You can make your own or purchase pre-made seasoning from the supermarket. Just be sure to check the ingredients as some brands may contain MSG, added sugar, wheat, or stabilizers.
Blackened Salmon Seasoning
For this recipe, I used a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasonings, salt, pepper, and cayenne. While some recipes call for chili pepper and brown sugar, I personally find them unnecessary. The blackening cooking method does not require sugar; it relies solely on high heat to create that delicious brown-black color. No need to marinate the salmon!
Is this Blackened Salmon Recipe Keto-Friendly?
Absolutely! This Cajun blackened salmon is keto and gluten-free. It can also be made dairy-free and Paleo by omitting the butter or using a dairy-free alternative.
How Long to Bake Salmon at 400 Degrees F?
A whole salmon filet usually takes around 15 minutes to bake at 400°F. To ensure it’s cooked through, I recommend using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
Baked Blackened Salmon (How to Cook)
Follow these simple steps to prepare your baked blackened salmon:
- Remove the salmon from the fridge 20 minutes prior to baking. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel.
- Mix one tablespoon of olive oil with melted butter and brush it over the entire filet, including the top and sides. Spread the finely grated garlic evenly.
- Combine all the spices and season the filet generously, pressing the spice blend onto it. Brush the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon.
- Place the seasoned salmon filet, skin side down, on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12 minutes, then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
- Check the doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also use a fork to check if the fish flakes easily.
- Let the baked salmon rest loosely covered with foil for 3 minutes before serving. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, garnish with chopped parsley or dill, and savor every bite!
What Internal Temperature to Cook Oven-Baked Salmon?
To ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection, the internal temperature should reach 145°F or the fish should easily flake with a fork. Insert a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the filet to check for doneness.
What to Serve with Baked Blackened Salmon
The possibilities are endless when it comes to side dishes. Here are a few tasty options:
- Air fryer asparagus
- Jasmine rice or Basmati rice
- Homemade bow tie pasta
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Instant Pot Brussels Sprouts
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Yuca fries
- Roasted carrots and parsnips
How to Store Baked Salmon
If you have any leftovers, store the baked blackened salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it in the microwave until hot.
Other Fish Recipes to Enjoy
If you’re a seafood lover, here are some other fish recipes you’ll enjoy:
- Salmon in air fryer
- Grilled salmon recipe
- Salmon soup
- Tilapia in air fryer
- Baked cod recipe
- Tuna ceviche
Enjoy your flavorful and healthy seafood feast!
PIN & ENJOY!