Blackened Salmon with Creole Dill Sauce

If you love bold, zesty flavors and crave a dinner that’s both vibrant and satisfying, this Blackened Salmon with Creole Dill Sauce is just what you need. The smoky, spicy blackened seasoning on the salmon pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy Creole dill sauce, making each bite an exciting burst of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress with its perfect balance of spice and freshness.

Why You’ll Love Blackened Salmon with Creole Dill Sauce

Bold and Flavorful: The blackened seasoning gives the salmon a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the cool, creamy dill sauce.
Quick and Easy: You can make this dish in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Healthy: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious and heart-healthy choice for your meal.
Versatile: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted veggies, rice, or a light salad. You can easily adapt it to your preference!

Ingredients for Blackened Salmon with Creole Dill Sauce

Salmon Fillets: The star of the show, rich in flavor and perfect for blackening.
Blackened Seasoning: A blend of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano creates that signature spicy crust.
Olive Oil: For searing the salmon to crispy perfection.
Lemon: Adds a fresh burst of citrus that complements the richness of the salmon.
Dill: The star ingredient in the creamy Creole dill sauce, giving it that refreshing, herbaceous note.
Greek Yogurt: Provides the creamy base for the sauce, making it smooth and tangy.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
Creole Seasoning: A little extra spice to give the sauce a kick.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that extra depth of flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the salmon and the sauce.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the blackened seasoning stick better. Next, sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over both sides of the salmon, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

2. Heat the Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up until shimmering, but not smoking.

3. Cook the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down (if the skin is on). Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is nicely blackened and cooked through. You can adjust the cooking time depending on your preferred level of doneness. For a crispy, flavorful crust, avoid moving the salmon too much in the pan.

4. Make the Creole Dill Sauce
While the salmon cooks, prepare the Creole dill sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, garlic, creole seasoning, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if needed.

5. Serve
Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Spoon the Creole dill sauce generously over the top of each fillet. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Blackened Salmon with Creole Dill Sauce

This blackened salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or a hearty wild rice blend for a filling meal.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted asparagus, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts make a perfect complement to the richness of the salmon.
• Salad: A light, fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the dish beautifully.
• Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob adds a sweet, smoky touch to the meal.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a small pinch of smoked paprika to the Creole dill sauce.
– If you prefer your salmon with a bit more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the blackened seasoning.
– If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream can be used as a substitute for a slightly tangier flavor.

FAQ’s

1 Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.

2 Can I make the Creole dill sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Creole dill sauce can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.

3 How can I make the salmon spicier?
To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or add a splash of hot sauce to the Creole dill sauce.

4 Can I cook the salmon on the grill instead?
Yes, grilling the salmon will give it a smoky flavor that complements the blackened seasoning perfectly. Just make sure to watch the salmon closely so it doesn’t overcook.

5 How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve its texture.

6 Can I use a different fish?
Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other firm fish like cod, tilapia, or trout.

7 Can I make this dish low-fat?
For a lighter version, you can replace the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt and use less oil when cooking the salmon.

8 What sides go well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or rice are great sides for this dish. You can also serve it with sautéed greens or mashed potatoes.

9 Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check your creole seasoning and mayonnaise for any hidden gluten ingredients.

10 Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the seasoned salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Conclusion

Blackened Salmon with Creole Dill Sauce is a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. The combination of smoky, spicy salmon with the creamy, tangy dill sauce creates a perfect balance of bold and fresh flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to leave everyone wanting more.

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