Description
This Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make main course featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets coated in a smoky spice blend and topped with a rich, tangy Dijon mustard cream sauce. The recipe combines Cajun-inspired spices with a creamy sauce that elevates the dish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin on or off)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Dijon Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to create the spice mixture for the salmon.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub the prepared spice blend evenly over each fillet, ensuring thorough coverage for a rich flavor and blackened crust.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet and sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the exterior is blackened and the salmon is cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add a teaspoon of olive oil or butter to the same skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy Dijon sauce generously over the blackened salmon fillets. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Notes
- Serve the dish alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice to create a complete meal.
- For a lighter cream sauce, substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt for the heavy cream.
- Alternatively, grill the salmon to add a smoky flavor and crisp texture.
