Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce ☀️

Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish that perfectly balances spicy, savory, and tangy flavors. This dish features tender salmon fillets coated with a blend of spices, then cooked to perfection and paired with a rich and creamy Dijon mustard sauce. Whether you’re looking for a delicious weeknight dinner or a show-stopping meal for special occasions, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 lime, juiced

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon: In a bowl, combine the salmon fillets, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss to coat. Let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
2. Cook the Salmon: Grill or pan-fry the salmon fillets until cooked through and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.
3. Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve: Place the cooked salmon fillets on plates. Drizzle with the Creamy Dijon Sauce and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips:

• For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
• Serve the salmon with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.

History:

Blackened salmon is a popular dish that originated in the Southern United States, particularly New Orleans. The “blackened” style of cooking was created by Chef Paul Prudhomme in the 1980s, and it refers to a technique where fish (or other proteins) is coated in spices and then seared at high heat to form a flavorful, crispy crust. Since its introduction, blackened salmon has become a beloved dish due to its rich, smoky flavor and quick cooking time.

Health Benefits:

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and selenium. Omega-3s are known to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote brain function. This recipe also includes garlic and cayenne pepper, both of which offer potential health benefits like boosting the immune system and improving digestion.

Nutrition:

Here is a general breakdown of the nutrition content for a serving of blackened salmon (without the creamy Dijon sauce):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 500-700mg

When paired with the creamy Dijon sauce, the dish will contain additional calories and fat, but it’s still a relatively healthy meal packed with essential nutrients.

Conclusion:

Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce is a dish that brings together bold flavors and healthy ingredients in one delightful plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this meal is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and balanced nutrition. The combination of tender, seasoned salmon and creamy, tangy sauce creates an unforgettable experience that will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Lovers:

People who love bold, spicy flavors and healthy seafood dishes will fall in love with this recipe. If you’re a fan of grilling or pan-frying fish, this is the perfect way to elevate your usual preparation. The creamy Dijon sauce adds a luxurious touch that enhances the flavors of the blackened fish.