Pin It This dish highlights tender salmon fillets coated in a smoky, spicy crust, pan-seared to perfection. The blackened seasoning combines paprika, herbs, and cayenne for bold flavor. A refreshing salsa of diced mango, creamy avocado, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro adds brightness and balance. Lime juice enhances the fresh components, making each bite lively and satisfying. Serve with rice or greens for a wholesome, colorful plate that’s quick and easy to prepare.
The first time I made blackened salmon, my smoke alarm went off twice and my roommate thought I'd set the kitchen on fire. That charred spice crust creates this incredible smoky flavor that makes everyone forget about the alarm's drama. Now it's become our go-to when we want something that feels fancy but only takes thirty minutes from start to finish.
Last summer I served this at a dinner party and my friend who swore she hated salmon asked for the recipe before she'd even finished her plate. There's something about that blackened crust that makes fish feel exciting and new, even for skeptics. The mango salsa has become such a staple in my kitchen that I make double batches just to keep in the fridge for snacking.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: Skinless works best here so the spice coating makes direct contact with the fish
- Smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that gives the dish that authentic smoky depth
- Cayenne pepper: Adjust this based on your heat tolerance, but don't skip it entirely
- Ripe mango: Should give slightly when pressed but still feel firm, not mushy
- Fresh avocado: Adds that creamy element that tames the spice perfectly
- Lime juice: Use fresh squeezed, bottled juice can taste flat and metallic
Instructions
- Blend your spices:
- Whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
- Prep the salmon:
- Pat fillets completely dry with paper towels, rub with olive oil, then press the spice mixture onto all sides.
- Get your skillet screaming hot:
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high for about 3 minutes, until it's radiating serious heat.
- Sear to perfection:
- Cook salmon 3 to 4 minutes per side, developing a dark crust while keeping the center moist and tender.
- Mix the salsa:
- Gently combine diced mango, avocado, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Bring it together:
- Pile generous spoonfuls of salsa over each fillet and serve immediately with lime wedges.
Pin It This recipe became my anniversary dinner tradition because it feels special enough for celebration but doesn't keep us in the kitchen for hours. Something about eating with your hands, squeezing fresh lime, and getting that perfect bite of salmon with salsa just makes the whole evening feel relaxed and intimate.
Making It Your Own
I've discovered that pineapple works beautifully in place of mango when they're out of season. The swap keeps that sweet-tropical balance that cuts through the spices.
Serving Suggestions
Cilantro lime rice makes the perfect base to catch all those incredible juices. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the rich spices beautifully.
Make Ahead Magic
The spice blend keeps for months in a sealed jar, so I always make triple batches. The salsa tastes even better after it sits for an hour.
- Mix the salsa ahead but add avocado right before serving to prevent browning
- Let your fish come to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even searing
- Set out all your ingredients mise en place style before you heat the pan
Pin It Hope this brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine over the years.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the blackened crust on the salmon?
-
Pat the salmon dry and coat it evenly with the spice blend. Cook over medium-high heat in a hot skillet without moving it initially, allowing a dark crust to form naturally.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in the seasoning?
-
Yes, modify the cayenne pepper quantity to control heat. Adding jalapeño to the salsa also boosts spiciness.
- → What are good side options for this dish?
-
Serve alongside cooked rice, mixed greens, or a light salad to complement the salmon and salsa's vibrant flavors.
- → How should I prepare the mango avocado salsa?
-
Chop ripe mango and avocado into small pieces, combine with diced red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss gently to mix without mashing the avocado.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?
-
Yes, it contains naturally gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients, making it suitable for those dietary needs.
