4salmon filletsskin-on or skinless (6 ounces/170g each)
2tablespoonsolive oil
1tablespoonchopped parsley
Lemon wedgesfor serving
Instructions
In a small bowl, stir together the paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and black pepper.
Brush the top of the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon oil and sprinkle generously with the spice blend.
In a large cast iron skillet over medium-low heat, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the salmon, spice-side down, until browned, 4 to 6 minutes. Flip the salmon and continue cooking until the fish is cooked through, about 4 minutes for medium-rare. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Make sure the cast iron skillet is hot before adding the salmon to it. A hot pan ensures you get a beautiful crust on the salmon.
A cast-iron skillet is the best ideal for cooking blackened salmon. Cast iron heats up evenly and retains heat well.
If you have a fish spatula, that’s perfect for this recipe. A fish spatula is thin and flexible, allowing you to lift and flip the fish without damaging it. If you do not have one, a large thin spatula will work, just be careful while flipping!
Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Sprinkle a generous amount of seasoning on each fillet to get a deliciously crispy crust on your fish.
For the best crust and to prevent tearing of the fillets, avoid moving the salmon as it cooks. You can gently lift a corner of the fish to check if the crust has blackened but be patient and allow the salmon to sear undistributed.
If you’re unsure if the salmon is done, you can use a cooking thermometer to check the internal temperature. The FDA recommends that salmon be cooked to 145°F but keep in mind that residual heat from your skillet will continue to cook the salmon as it rests, so make sure to remove the salmon from the heat immediately.