Blackened Salmon Tacos Recipe
Tacos are a crowd-pleaser, and when paired with blackened salmon, they become a culinary delight! This recipe brings bold, smoky flavors balanced by fresh toppings and a creamy sauce. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a weekend treat, these Blackened Salmon Tacos will surely impress.
Ingredients
For the Blackened Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (skin removed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Tacos
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges for serving
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Blackening Spice
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
2. Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Rub both sides with olive oil, then generously coat with the blackening spice. Ensure the spice mix is evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the exterior is charred and the inside is flaky. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes.
4. Warm the Tortillas
While the salmon rests, heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. Alternatively, wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Adjust the consistency with a splash of water if needed.
Assembling the Tacos
- Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer the tortillas with shredded cabbage, salmon, red onion, avocado slices, and a drizzle of the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Pro Tips for Perfect Blackened Salmon Tacos
- Choose fresh salmon: Look for firm, bright fillets for the best flavor.
- Control the heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to match your spice tolerance.
- Don’t skip the char: A hot skillet is key for that signature blackened crust.
- Prep toppings ahead: Have everything ready before cooking the salmon to assemble tacos quickly and keep the fish warm.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve your Blackened Salmon Tacos with:
- A side of Mexican street corn (elote)
- A refreshing mango salsa
- A chilled glass of lime margarita or sparkling water with mint
These Blackened Salmon Tacos are perfect for any occasion. The blend of smoky, spicy fish with crunchy cabbage, creamy avocado, and tangy sauce is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become a staple in your taco repertoire!
