Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce: A Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home

There’s something undeniably luxurious about a perfectly cooked piece of salmon. Its rich, buttery flavor and tender texture make it a favorite among seafood lovers. When paired with a bold, spicy blackened seasoning and a velvety Dijon sauce, it transforms into a dish that feels like it belongs in a high-end restaurant. The best part? You can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen with ease.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce, complete with detailed instructions, cooking times, and temperatures. We’ll also include tips for selecting the best ingredients and side dish pairings to round out your meal. Let’s dive in!

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Blackened Salmon
2. Ingredients for Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce
3. Step-by-Step Recipe
   • Preparing the Blackened Seasoning
   • Cooking the Salmon
   • Making the Creamy Dijon Sauce
4. Serving Suggestions
5. Tips for Success
6. Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Introduction to Blackened Salmon

Blackening is a cooking technique that originated in Louisiana, where fish or meat is coated in a blend of bold spices and seared in a hot skillet until the spices form a dark, flavorful crust. The result is a dish that’s smoky, spicy, and deeply satisfying. Salmon, with its high fat content and robust flavor, is an ideal candidate for this method.

The creamy Dijon sauce adds a tangy, luxurious contrast to the spicy salmon, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick yet impressive, or for a special occasion when you want to wow your guests.

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2. Ingredients for Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce

For the Blackened Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the skillet)

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (optional, for texture)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

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3. Step-by-Step Recipe

Preparing the Blackened Seasoning

1. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
3. Brush each fillet lightly with melted butter, then generously coat both sides with the blackened seasoning. Set aside.

Cooking the Salmon

1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet, presentation side down (the side that will face up when serving). Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving the fillets to allow a crust to form.
3. Flip the fillets using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare or 135°F (57°C) for medium. The salmon will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.
4. Transfer the salmon to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

Making the Creamy Dijon Sauce

1. In the same skillet (no need to clean it), reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the butter and garlic. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
3. Stir in the Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard (if using), and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it sit for a minute to thicken further.

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4. Serving Suggestions

Plate the blackened salmon fillets and drizzle generously with the creamy Dijon sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness. Here are some side dishes that pair beautifully with this dish:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they’re perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty and flavorful, it complements the boldness of the salmon.
• Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up every last bit of the Dijon sauce.

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5. Tips for Success

• Choose High-Quality Salmon: Look for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it tends to have a richer flavor and firmer texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon is best when it’s still slightly translucent in the center. Overcooking can make it dry and tough.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning.
• Use a Hot Skillet: A properly heated skillet ensures a good sear and prevents the salmon from sticking.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: The Dijon sauce can be prepared in advance and reheated gently before serving.

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6. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other firm-fleshed fish like cod, halibut, or trout.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the sauce.

What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?

A nonstick or stainless steel skillet will work, but cast iron is ideal for achieving the best crust.

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Conclusion

Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. With its bold flavors and elegant presentation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

So, grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy one of the most flavorful salmon dishes you’ve ever tasted. Bon appétit!

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Total Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Cooking Temperature: Medium-high heat (375°F/190°C for the skillet)