Get ready to elevate your home cooking with a restaurant-quality dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food critics. This Blackened Salmon with Balsamic Kale isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that combines the bold, spicy flavors of Southern cooking with the sophisticated touch of balsamic-glazed kale. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a stunning, nutritious dinner that looks like it was crafted by a professional chef, but can be easily prepared in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 salmon fillets, 2 tablespoons of blackening seasoning, 4 cups of chopped kale, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the kale later.
- In a small bowl, coat the salmon fillets evenly with the blackening seasoning, ensuring each fillet is well-covered on all sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering, but not smoking.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, until the fillets develop a dark, crusty exterior.
- Gently flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped kale. Sauté the kale for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to wilt.
- Pour the balsamic vinegar over the sautéed kale and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the vinegar to reduce slightly and the kale to become tender.
- Once the kale is cooked, remove it from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To serve, place a generous portion of the balsamic kale on each plate and top with a blackened salmon fillet. Enjoy your Blackened Salmon with Balsamic Kale!
Tips
- Choose high-quality salmon fillets with firm, bright flesh for the best results.
- Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the salmon to achieve that perfect blackened crust.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible, as it provides the most even heat distribution and best searing.
- Don't overcrowd the pan—cook salmon fillets in a single layer to ensure proper caramelization.
- Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- If you prefer less spice, adjust the blackening seasoning to your taste or use a milder spice blend.
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salmon just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 440kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
