Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary salmon into a restaurant-quality sensation with just a few simple techniques. This Cast Iron Blackened Salmon with Cucumber Mango Relish and Avocado Cream is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that promises to elevate your home cooking game. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, mouthwatering experience that looks like it was crafted by a professional chef, but can be easily mastered in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 mango, diced
- 1 avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Evenly coat each fillet with blackening seasoning, ensuring complete coverage on all sides.
- Create cucumber mango relish: In a medium bowl, combine diced cucumber and diced mango. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of lime juice. Mix gently and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Make avocado cream: In a blender or food processor, combine ripe avocado, sour cream, remaining lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a small serving bowl.
- Prepare cast iron skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to become extremely hot, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook salmon: Add a thin layer of oil to the hot skillet. Carefully place seasoned salmon fillets, skin-side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until edges become crispy and golden.
- Finish cooking: Flip salmon and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
- Plate the dish: Place blackened salmon on serving plates. Top with cucumber mango relish and drizzle avocado cream around the fish. Serve immediately.
Tips
- Ensure your cast iron skillet is scorching hot before adding salmon—this creates the perfect crispy, caramelized exterior.
- Pat salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning to help the blackening spice adhere and create a beautiful crust.
- Use fresh, ripe ingredients for the relish and cream to maximize flavor complexity.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet—cook salmon in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
- Let salmon rest for 2 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne to your blackening seasoning.
- Choose wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and nutritional profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 390kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
