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Creamy Blackened Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

creamy blackened salmon with lemon butter sauce - featured image
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A quick and elegant 20-minute meal featuring a spicy blackened crust on salmon fillets, finished with a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce. This dish balances bold Cajun flavors with creamy comfort, making it perfect for weeknights or date nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lemons (juice of both, zest of one)
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Olive oil (for pan)

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper.
  3. Brush melted butter over both sides of the salmon fillets, then sprinkle the spice mix evenly over the buttered fish, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Heat a cast iron or heavy stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until very hot. Add a splash of olive oil.
  5. Place fillets in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until a dark, crispy crust forms.
  6. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from pan and set aside.
  7. Reduce heat to medium-low in the same pan. Add 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute.
  8. Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  9. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  10. Return salmon to the pan to warm through or spoon sauce over plated fish. Garnish with parsley and lemon zest. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure the pan is very hot before adding fish to prevent sticking and achieve a proper blackened crust. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Let salmon come to room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking for even results. The sauce can thicken upon cooling; reheat gently with a splash of water or cream to restore consistency. Do not freeze salmon with the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened salmon, lemon butter sauce, quick dinner, keto friendly, gluten free, seafood recipe, cajun salmon, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://islatable.com/creamy-blackened-salmon-with-lemon-butter-sauce-easy-20-min-meal/