Crispy Spicy Herb-Seared Salmon
This Crispy Spicy Herb-Seared Salmon is the perfect companion to Zatarain's Black Beans and Rice, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. The salmon fillets are expertly pan-seared to achieve a delectably crunchy exterior while remaining irresistibly juicy on the inside. A delightful blend of garlic, onion, cayenne, sweet paprika, and black pepper infuses the fish with a spicy kick, but you can easily adjust the heat to your preference. Serve each savory filet over a bed of flavorful Black Beans and Rice for a complete meal that bursts with flavor and nourishment. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also low in carbs, perfect for those looking to indulge guilt-free. Elevate your next dinner with this dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
salmon fillets
2 (skin removed)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (for frying)
garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon
onion powder
1/4 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
sweet paprika
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
salt
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step helps to achieve a perfect sear.
2
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, sweet paprika, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
3
Evenly coat all sides of the salmon fillets with the spice mixture, pressing gently to ensure the spices adhere.
4
Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating that it is hot enough for cooking.
5
Carefully add the seasoned salmon fillets to the skillet. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until a lovely golden-brown crust forms. Avoid moving them around during this time for optimal crispness.
6
Using a spatula, gently flip the fillets and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the other side is golden brown and the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork.
7
Once done, remove from skillet and serve immediately over a warm bed of Zatarain's Black Beans and Rice.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Spicy Herb-Seared Salmon?
It is a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring salmon fillets that are pan-seared to achieve a crunchy crust and juicy interior.
How many salmon fillets does this recipe use?
The recipe is specifically designed for 2 salmon fillets.
Should the salmon skin be left on?
No, the recipe instructions specify using salmon fillets with the skin removed.
What is the secret to a crispy exterior?
The secret is to pat the salmon fillets completely dry with a paper towel before seasoning and searing.
What spices are in the dry rub?
The rub consists of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, sweet paprika, black pepper, and salt.
How long do I cook the salmon on each side?
Cook the fillets for 5-7 minutes on the first side and another 5-7 minutes on the second side.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a spicy kick from the cayenne pepper, but the heat can be adjusted to your preference.
What side dish pairs best with this salmon?
It is recommended to serve the salmon over a bed of Zatarain's Black Beans and Rice.
Is this recipe low carb?
Yes, this pan-seared salmon recipe is low in carbohydrates.
What type of oil is used for searing?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
The oil is ready when it begins to shimmer in the skillet.
Can I move the salmon while it is searing?
It is best to leave the salmon undisturbed while searing to ensure a golden-brown crust forms.
How do I check if the salmon is finished cooking?
The salmon is done when the exterior is golden brown and it flakes easily when tested with a fork.
What heat level should I use?
The salmon should be cooked over medium-high heat.
How much garlic powder is needed?
You will need 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How much onion powder is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder.
How much cayenne pepper is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper.
What type of paprika should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for sweet paprika.
Is salt included in the seasoning?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of salt is used in the spice mixture.
How much black pepper is added?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
How do I apply the spices to the fish?
Mix the spices in a bowl and evenly coat all sides of the salmon, pressing gently so they adhere.
Is this a fast meal to prepare?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy weeknight dinner option.
What is the interior texture of the salmon?
The interior remains irresistibly juicy while the outside is crunchy.
Can I use this recipe for other types of fish?
While designed for salmon, this spice rub and searing method could work for other firm fish fillets.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it is a nourishing seafood dish that is low in carbs.
What tool should I use to flip the salmon?
A spatula should be used to gently flip the salmon fillets.
What size skillet is recommended?
A medium-sized skillet is ideal for two fillets.
Can I make this for more than two people?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients and spice measurements for more servings.
Does the spice rub include herbs?
The name mentions herbs, but the primary flavors come from the garlic, onion, and various peppers in the rub.
Should I serve the salmon immediately?
Yes, for the best texture and crispness, serve the salmon immediately after removing it from the skillet.