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## **Instructions**
### 1. **Prepare the Salmon**
Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy, blackened crust. Once dry, rub each fillet with a bit of olive oil to help the seasoning adhere.
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle this seasoning mix over both sides of the salmon fillets, pressing down gently to coat them evenly.
### 2. **Cook the Salmon**
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat for a few seconds. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Let the salmon cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The exterior should form a nice, crispy blackened crust while the inside remains tender and juicy.
Flip the salmon carefully using a spatula, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, tented with foil to keep warm.
### 3. **Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce**
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream. Scrape any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate them into the sauce. Allow the cream to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
Next, whisk in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
### 4. **Serve**
Place the blackened salmon fillets on individual plates and drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You can also add a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra zesty kick.
Serve your **Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce** alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light grain like quinoa or couscous to complete the meal.
### 5. **Enjoy!**
Dig in and enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, spicy salmon paired with the velvety, tangy Dijon sauce. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
## **Why You’ll Love Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce**
### **Flavor Explosion:**
The **blackened salmon** has a crispy, bold crust thanks to the combination of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and other spices. This packs each bite with intense flavor, perfectly complemented by the smooth, tangy creamy Dijon sauce. The combination of spice and creaminess makes each bite irresistible!
### **Healthy and Nutritious:**
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients, making this dish not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. The blackened seasoning adds a deep, smoky flavor without excess calories, and the creamy Dijon sauce is rich but can be made lighter with a little creativity.
### **Quick and Easy:**
In just about 30 minutes, you can have this flavorful, restaurant-quality meal on your dinner table. The salmon cooks quickly, and the creamy Dijon sauce comes together in just a few minutes, making this a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion dish.
### **Impressive Presentation:**
The blackened salmon looks beautiful on the plate, with its crispy, dark crust and tender interior. When paired with the creamy sauce, it’s a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. Your family and guests will think you spent hours preparing it—when in reality, it’s quick and easy!
### **Versatile:**
While this dish is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it by pairing it with a variety of sides. Serve it with a green vegetable like asparagus or spinach, or add roasted potatoes or a side of rice for a complete meal. The creamy Dijon sauce also works wonderfully with other proteins like chicken or shrimp if you’re looking to switch things up.
## **Tips for the Best Blackened Salmon**
– **Use Fresh Spices:** For the best flavor, make sure your spices are fresh. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for a while, consider replacing them to ensure the most vibrant and aromatic seasoning.
– **Don’t Overcook the Salmon:** Salmon cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. The fillets should be just cooked through, with a juicy and tender interior. Overcooking will result in dry salmon.
– **Adjust the Spice Level:** If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning. Alternatively, if you like more heat, you can increase it.
– **Make it Lighter:** If you want a lighter version of the creamy Dijon sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a non-dairy cream alternative, like coconut cream.
## **Final Thoughts**
**Blackened Salmon with Creamy Dijon Sauce** is the perfect combination of bold flavors and comforting creaminess. The crispy blackened crust adds a smoky depth to the rich, tender salmon, while the Dijon sauce provides a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the entire dish. This is a meal that’s sure to impress—whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests.
Quick, healthy, and full of flavor, this dish is destined to become a staple in your recipe collection. Serve it up for any occasion and enjoy the explosion of flavors with every bite!
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