Blackened salmon with sweet potato is a tasty dish that’s packed with flavor! The salmon is coated with spices and seared for a nice crispy edge, while the sweet potatoes are soft and sweet!
I love how the spices really wake up the salmon’s natural taste. Plus, sweet potatoes are a comforting side that makes this meal feel extra special. Perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. If you’re not a fan of salmon, try this with other fish like trout or tilapia.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring sweetness and nutrition to the dish. If you need a change, you can substitute with regular potatoes or mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Blackening Spice: The homemade spice mix adds a lot of flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-made Cajun seasoning can work well too. Just check the label to avoid excess salt! For those who prefer milder flavors, reduce the cayenne pepper.
Avocado: Avocado is great for creaminess. If you’re in a pinch, use mashed Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead. You can also swap lime juice for lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Blackened Salmon?
Blackening salmon is all about cooking it at the right heat to get that crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet! Preheat it on medium-high heat before adding oil. This helps in getting that nice char.
- Make sure the salmon is well-coated with the spice mix. Gently press it into the flesh to help it stick.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook one or two fillets at a time, so they sear properly instead of steaming.
- Watch the timer! Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes. Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it for perfect doneness.
Following these tips will ensure your salmon comes out beautifully blackened and absolutely delicious!
Blackened Salmon With Sweet Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, baby kale, lettuce)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For Blackening Spice:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Avocado Cream Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A splash of water or milk to thin as needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes, with around 15 minutes for prep and cooking each component. Enjoy a flavorful meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Sweet Potatoes:
Start by placing the diced sweet potatoes in a pot filled with salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and let them simmer until tender, which should take about 12-15 minutes. Once done, drain the sweet potatoes and mash them roughly, leaving a few chunks for a nice texture. Keep the mashed sweet potatoes warm for serving.
2. Make Blackening Spice:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix is what makes your salmon flavorful and delicious!
3. Season Salmon:
Before cooking, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Generously coat both sides of the salmon with the blackening spice mix, pressing gently to help it stick. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
4. Prepare Avocado Cream Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Blend everything until you have a smooth sauce. If it’s too thick, splash in a bit of water or milk until it reaches a creamy, pourable consistency. Set this delicious sauce aside.
5. Cook Salmon:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot (you can test it by splashing a drop of water—if it sizzles, it’s ready!), add the seasoned salmon fillets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a beautiful dark crust forms and they are cooked through but still moist inside.
6. Assemble the Plate:
To serve, place a generous scoop of the mashed sweet potatoes on one side of your plate. On the other side, add a handful of mixed greens and some sliced avocado. Lay the crispy blackened salmon fillets either on top or beside the sweet potatoes.
7. Finish and Serve:
Drizzle or dollop the creamy avocado sauce over the salmon or on the side. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions and a wedge of lime for a bit of freshness. For extra flair, you can sprinkle a touch more of the blackening spice or some smoked paprika over the dish!
Enjoy your flavorful, healthy blackened salmon with creamy avocado sauce and hearty sweet potatoes! It’s a meal that feels special but is simple to prepare!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Blackened Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covering it to retain moisture.
Can I Prep the Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can peel and dice the sweet potatoes a day in advance. Store them in a bowl of water in the fridge to prevent browning. Just drain and cook them when you’re ready to prepare the meal!
Is There a Substitute for Sour Cream in the Avocado Sauce?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you’d like to make it vegan. Both options will keep the creamy texture while adding a nice tang!
