Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce

If you’re craving something that’s flavorful, healthy, and oh-so-satisfying, then let me introduce you to this Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce. The salmon is perfectly seasoned with a smoky, bold blend of spices that creates a crispy, blackened crust on the outside, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. And then, just when you think it can’t get any better, we drizzle it with a velvety, tangy Dijon sauce that complements the spiciness and takes it to a whole new level. This dish is the kind of meal you crave on a busy weeknight but also one you’d feel proud to serve at a dinner party. Trust me—this one’s going to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce

Here’s why this dish is about to become your new favorite:

Bold, Smoky Flavor

The blackened seasoning on the salmon gives it a crispy, bold, and smoky flavor that’s incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of flavor that makes your taste buds sit up and take notice.

Creamy, Tangy Sauce

The creamy Dijon sauce is like the perfect finishing touch—smooth, tangy, and just the right amount of heat. It’s a perfect balance to the boldness of the blackened salmon.

Quick and Easy

It only takes a few simple steps to bring this dish to life, making it perfect for those nights when you want something that feels fancy without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, so you can make this dish whenever the craving strikes.

Healthy and Protein-Packed

This dish is packed with healthy fats, lean protein, and plenty of flavor. If you’re looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste, this one’s got you covered.

Impressive Presentation

The vibrant color of the blackened salmon paired with the creamy sauce makes for a stunning plate that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this dish both simple and decadent:

For the Blackened Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: The star of the dish. A good quality salmon fillet, skin-on or skinless, will work perfectly.
• Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavor.
• Garlic Powder: For a rich, savory undertone.
• Onion Powder: Gives a little extra depth.
• Cayenne Pepper: For that perfect kick of heat.
• Dried Thyme: A bit of earthiness to balance the spices.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To season and bring all the flavors together.
• Olive Oil: For cooking the salmon and ensuring a crispy exterior.

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• Dijon Mustard: Adds that sharp, tangy bite.
• Heavy Cream: For a rich and silky sauce.
• Lemon Juice: To brighten up the sauce and give it a little zesty freshness.
• Garlic: Adds flavor to the sauce without overpowering it.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, balancing out the sauce.

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s jump into the steps for this flavor-packed dish:

Prepare the Salmon

1. Mix the Blackened Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This blend will be your seasoning mix for the salmon.
2. Season the Salmon: Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Rub the seasoning mix all over the salmon, pressing it in to form a nice coating. The more seasoning, the better the crust!

Cook the Salmon

3. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if your fillets have skin. Let the salmon cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillet. The salmon should be blackened on the outside with a crispy crust, and the inside should be tender and flaky. You’ll know it’s done when it easily flakes with a fork.

Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce

4. Sauté the Garlic: In a small saucepan over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
5. Add the Cream and Dijon Mustard: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Dijon mustard. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently, and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Season the Sauce: Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and taste to make sure the sauce has the perfect balance of tang and creaminess.

Serve and Enjoy

7. Plate the Salmon: Once your salmon is cooked to perfection, transfer it to plates. Spoon the creamy Dijon sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Fat per serving: 26g
Carbs per serving: 4g
Protein per serving: 30g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce

With Steamed Vegetables

Pair this dish with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. Their fresh, bright flavors are the perfect contrast to the rich salmon and sauce.

Over Rice or Quinoa

For a more filling meal, serve this blackened salmon over a bed of rice or quinoa. The creamy sauce will soak into the grains, making every bite even more indulgent.

With a Crisp Salad

Serve the salmon with a simple green salad on the side to balance the richness of the dish. A light lemon vinaigrette will complement the Dijon sauce beautifully.

On a Bed of Spinach

Place your blackened salmon fillets on a bed of sautéed spinach. The spinach will add some freshness and color, and the heat from the salmon will slightly wilt the leaves, making for a lovely presentation.

Additional Tips

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a less spicy version, feel free to cut back on the cayenne pepper. You can also add a bit of smoked paprika for a more mellow flavor.
• Make it Even Creamier: If you want the sauce to be extra creamy, you can add a bit of cream cheese to the sauce base, which will make it thicker and even more velvety.
• Use Skin-on Salmon: Cooking salmon with the skin on helps keep it extra moist and adds a little extra texture when you eat it. But feel free to use skinless fillets if that’s what you prefer.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon before cooking. You can defrost it overnight in the fridge or use the quick-thaw method by placing the sealed bag of salmon in a bowl of cold water.

Q2: Can I use a different fish?
A2: Definitely! This recipe works well with other firm fish like trout, tilapia, or mahi-mahi. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Q3: How can I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to avoid drying it out.

Q4: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A4: Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Q5: Can I make this recipe without a skillet?
A5: Yes! You can also cook the salmon in the oven. Simply preheat the oven to 400°F, place the salmon on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q6: How do I know when the salmon is done?
A6: The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. If you’re unsure, using a meat thermometer is always a good idea.

Q7: Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of salmon?
A7: Yes! You can use chicken breasts or thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly—chicken typically takes a little longer to cook through.

Q8: How spicy is this dish?
A8: The spiciness is mild to medium, thanks to the cayenne pepper. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the cayenne or omit it entirely.

Q9: Can I use a different mustard for the sauce?
A9: Yes! If you prefer a milder mustard, you can use yellow mustard, or even a honey mustard for a slightly sweeter sauce.

Q10: What should I serve this with?
A10: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad. Choose something light to complement the rich flavors of the salmon and sauce.

Conclusion

Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a showstopper meal that’s packed with flavor, yet incredibly easy to make. The smoky, spicy salmon paired with the velvety, tangy sauce creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a delicious dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite!

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