Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce

This Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish made in under 30 minutes! The salmon is coated in a bold, smoky spice blend and pan-seared to perfection, then drizzled with a rich and tangy Dijon cream sauce. It’s a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Blackened Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (for searing)

Blackening Spice Mix:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour (or gluten-free alternative)
• ¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Season the Salmon

1. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and rub them with olive oil, then coat them evenly with the blackening spice mix.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until blackened and cooked through (internal temp 125-130°F for medium).
3. Remove from the pan and let rest while making the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until slightly golden.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Serve & Garnish

• Plate the blackened salmon and drizzle with the creamy Dijon sauce.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

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Tips for Success

✔ Get a good sear – Use high heat and don’t move the salmon too much while cooking.
✔ Adjust the spice level – Reduce cayenne if you prefer a milder blackened flavor.
✔ Thin out the sauce – Add a splash of broth or milk if it gets too thick.
✔ Crispy skin tip – Cook salmon skin-side down for most of the cooking time.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 38g
• Carbs: 5g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg

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Health Benefits

✅ High in Omega-3s – Salmon supports heart and brain health.
✅ Rich in Protein – Aids muscle growth and keeps you full.
✅ Anti-Inflammatory – The spices and healthy fats help reduce inflammation.
✅ Low in Carbs – Perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
✅ Supports Immune Health – Garlic, mustard, and lemon juice provide antioxidants.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I use a different fish?
A: Yes! This recipe works well with cod, trout, or tilapia.

Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: Try it with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or quinoa salad.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan.

Q: Can I bake instead of pan-sear?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.

Q: Is there a dairy-free sauce option?
A: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.

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This Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is bold, flavorful, and easy to make! It’s perfect for a quick, healthy meal that feels indulgent yet packed with nutrients.