Optional for serving: lemon wedges and fresh chopped herbs such as thyme, oregano, or parsley
Instructions
MAKE HOMEMADE BLACKENED SEASONING
In a shallow bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
SEASON FISH
Pat seasoning mixture onto the flesh side of each piece of salmon.
COOK SALMON
In a large skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Place salmon, flesh-side down, in the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, and then flip salmon with a spatula. Cook for about 5-6 more minutes, or until skin becomes crispy and fish flakes easily with a fork.
Video
Notes
Control the level of heat in your seasoning rub by increasing, decreasing, or omitting the cayenne pepper.
Use fresh salmon or frozen salmon for this recipe. If starting with frozen salmon, make sure that it's completely thawed before using. Thaw salmon in the refrigerator overnight. To quick-thaw, place it in a large Ziploc bag and submerge it in a bowl of cold water.
Skin-on salmon works best because the skin provides a safety layer between the fish's flesh and the hot skillet, helping the salmon retain its juices and cook evenly. The skin also holds the fish together, making it easier to flip without the flesh falling apart. In a pinch, use salmon with the skin already removed -- just be careful when turning it in the pan!
Garnish the fish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, lime juice, lemon wedges, or lime wedges.