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Oven Blackened Salmon

This oven-baked blackened salmon features a spicy, smoky crust achieved by coating the fish with a bold spice mixture and roasting it at high heat. The result is a tender salmon fillet with a crisp, charred exterior and moist, flaky interior, resembling traditional pan-blackened fish but prepared with minimal fuss in the oven.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets skin on or off as preferred
  • 2 tbsp paprika sweet or smoked for extra flavor
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust for heat preference
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil to help spices stick and promote crispness

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the spice crust adhere better.
  4. Brush both sides of each salmon fillet with olive oil, ensuring an even coating that aids in crisping and spice adherence.
  5. Sprinkle the spice mixture generously over all sides of each fillet, pressing lightly to adhere well and create a flavorful crust.
  6. Arrange the coated salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart for even cooking.
  7. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes, until the crust is crispy and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  8. Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes to allow the juices to settle.
  9. Serve the oven blackened salmon hot, with your favorite sides such as citrus slices or a fresh salad for contrast.

Notes

Ensure the oven is fully preheated for best crust formation. Use fresh spices for maximum flavor. Adjust spice quantities based on heat preference.