Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sizzling sounds of salmon hitting the pan dance through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement for today’s culinary adventure. These Blackened Salmon Tacos are my go-to recipe for a quick and mouthwatering meal that breaks free from the mundane. With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of smoky flavors, crunchy slaw, and a touch of creaminess from feta. Plus, the small batch size means you won’t have endless leftovers, making them ideal for those cozy evenings when you crave something delicious yet effortless. Ready to elevate taco night? Let’s dive into this flavorful feast that’s customizable enough to suit any palate! Why Choose Blackened Salmon Tacos? Quick and Easy: Whip up a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights or spontaneous gatherings. Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the delightful combination of smoky salmon, crunchy slaw, and creamy feta that takes your taste buds on a delicious journey. Customizable Topper: Personalize each taco with your favorite toppings – diced avocado or zesty salsa verde add a fresh twist! Consider also pairing them with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful dining experience. Small Batch Delight: Designed for 4-5 tacos, this recipe ensures no waste while still delivering satisfying portions for you and your loved ones. Texture Harmony: Experience the perfect marriage of flaky salmon and crunchy slaw, making every bite a celebration of flavors and textures. Blackened Salmon Tacos Ingredients For the Salmon • Salmon Fillet – Main protein that provides rich flavor; can use skin-on or skinless and adjust cooking time accordingly. • Smoked Paprika – Adds smokiness and color to the seasoning blend; adjust for heat preference. • Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor of ingredients; sea salt can be used instead, adjusting the quantity accordingly. • Onion Powder – Contributes sweetness and depth; fresh onion can be used if desired. • Garlic Powder – Imparts rich flavor and aroma; replace with fresh minced garlic if preferred. • Dried Thyme – Adds earthiness to the seasoning; oregano can also be a good substitute. • Cayenne Pepper – Provides mild heat; swap with chili powder for a general spice alternative. • Ground Cumin – Offers a warm, earthy flavor; essential for the Cajun-like taste. For Cooking • Olive Oil – Used for cooking the salmon, preventing sticking; can use avocado oil as an alternative. For the Tacos • Fajita-Sized Tortillas – Soft wrap for tacos; larger tortillas can be used if preferred. • Shredded Coleslaw Mix – Adds crunch and freshness; feel free to use your favorite mix of shredded vegetables. • Feta Cheese – Provides creamy texture and tanginess; use cotija cheese or omit for a dairy-free option. • Cherry Tomatoes – Fresh topping that adds color and flavor; diced bell peppers are a great substitute. For the Spicy Mayo • Mayonnaise – Base for the spicy mayo sauce; vegan mayonnaise can be used for a plant-based version. • Hot Sauce – Adds spiciness to the mayo; replace with any favorite hot sauce or opt for salsa for a different kick. • Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens flavors in tacos and spice mix; feel free to add more for extra acidity. Get ready to experience the amazing combination of flavors in these Blackened Salmon Tacos! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blackened Salmon Tacos Step 1: Prepare Seasoning In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Stir to mix and set this flavorful blend aside, ready to elevate the taste of your blackened salmon tacos. Step 2: Season Salmon Take your salmon fillet and pat it dry with a paper towel for optimal pan-searing. Coat evenly with the prepared seasoning mix, ensuring both sides are well covered. Allow the salmon to sit for about 10 minutes; this will help the spices penetrate the fish and enhance the flavors as it comes to room temperature. Step 3: Heat Oil In a non-stick skillet, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat until shimmering, indicating it’s ready for cooking. This step is crucial to prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan and to achieve a beautifully crisp exterior. Make sure to monitor the heat closely to avoid burning. Step 4: Cook Salmon Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillet into the hot skillet, flesh-side down. Cook for about 3 minutes undisturbed until the salmon develops a deep golden crust. Then, gently flip the fish using a spatula and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches your desired doneness. Let the salmon rest for 4-5 minutes before flaking it into bite-sized pieces. Step 5: Make Spicy Mayo While the salmon is resting, prepare the spicy mayo by combining ¼ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of hot sauce, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy, adjusting the heat by adding more hot sauce if desired. Taste and season with a pinch of salt to complete this zesty topping. Step 6: Assemble Tacos To assemble your blackened salmon tacos, warm the fajita-sized tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable. Begin by placing a generous amount of flaky salmon in the center of each tortilla, then top with a handful of shredded coleslaw mix, crumbled feta, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the spicy mayo generously over the top for that final touch of flavor before serving. What to Serve with Blackened Salmon Tacos These delectable tacos deserve a spotlight, so let’s complete the meal with some delicious sides and beverages that will create a dining experience full of joy and flavor. Creamy Guacamole: This luscious dip pairs perfectly with the tacos, offering a buttery texture and vibrant flavor that balances the spicy elements beautifully. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and zesty lime mirrors the bright flavors of the tacos, creating harmony on your plate. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing rosé elevates the entire meal, enhancing the fresh seafood experience while keeping things light. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet charred flavors of corn complement the smoky richness of the fish, creating a satisfying crunch that complements the tacos beautifully. Pineapple Salsa: This refreshing, tropical salsa provides a sweet contrast that brightens each bite and adds an exotic touch to your meal. Mixed Green Salad: Light and crispy greens drizzled with lime vinaigrette offer a fresh crunch that rounds out this culinary adventure, cleansing the palate deliciously. Chips and Spicy Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for an irresistible appetizer, setting the tone for a delightful taco feast. Variations & Substitutions for Blackened Salmon Tacos Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful suggestions! Protein Swap: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of salmon for a different protein option. Both are flavorful choices that work beautifully in these tacos. Dairy-Free Delight: Use avocado or omit feta entirely for a dairy-free version that still bursts with flavor. The creamy texture of avocado brings a different twist while keeping it fresh. Heat Upgrade: Replace cayenne pepper with sriracha for a fiery kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of chipotle powder can add a smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with fish. Vegan Version: Swap mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and replace the salmon with grilled vegetables for a satisfying vegan option. The smoky flavor still shines through! Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice over the salmon before cooking for a citrusy twist that brightens up each bite. It’s a fantastic way to complement the smokiness. Topping Varieties: Embrace different textures by adding diced avocado, pickled red onions, or even salsa verde for a zesty and colorful taco experience. These toppings can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Wrap It Up: Instead of tortillas, try using lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. The crispness of the lettuce adds a refreshing crunch that balances beautifully with the salmon. For more delicious pairings, consider serving your Blackened Salmon Tacos with a light white wine, such as a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, or explore delightful options like Orange Glazed Salmon for a complete seafood meal experience! How to Store and Freeze Blackened Salmon Tacos Airtight Container: Store any leftover blackened salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days to maintain its flavor and freshness. Toppings Storage: Keep the slaw, feta, and other toppings separate in the fridge to prevent sogginess—these can be stored for the same 2-3 days. Freezing Salmon: If you want to freeze the seasoned salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal flavor. Reheating Tips: When ready to enjoy, reheat the salmon in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Assemble tacos with fresh toppings for the best experience. Expert Tips for Blackened Salmon Tacos Rest the Salmon: Letting the salmon rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful. Use Non-Stick Tools: Utilize a non-stick spatula for flipping the salmon easily, avoiding breakage while achieving that perfect golden crust. Adjust Heat Level: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning to suit your personal spice preference for these blackened salmon tacos. Prevent Soggy Tortillas: Keep tortillas warm but separate from the toppings until serving to maintain a satisfying texture; no one wants a soggy taco! Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with various toppings like avocado, pickled onions, or different hot sauces to make these tacos uniquely yours! Make Ahead Options These Blackened Salmon Tacos are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can season the salmon fillet and let it marinate up to 24 hours in advance, locking in all those delicious flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the spicy mayo and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, it’s best to keep the salmon and toppings separate until you’re ready to serve, preventing the tortillas from becoming soggy. When you’re set to enjoy your tacos, simply cook the salmon as instructed, warm the tortillas, and assemble with a drizzle of spicy mayo for restaurant-quality tacos without the fuss! Blackened Salmon Tacos Recipe FAQs What type of salmon is best for these tacos? Absolutely! Whether you choose skin-on or skinless salmon fillet, both will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be aware that skin-on might need a minute or two longer to cook to achieve the right texture, so keep an eye on it! How should I store leftover tacos? Great question! Store any leftover blackened salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to keep the toppings, like slaw and feta, in separate containers to maintain their freshness and prevent sogginess. Can I freeze blackened salmon, and if so, how? Yes, you can! To freeze seasoned salmon, carefully wrap it in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to use, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet. What if the salmon doesn’t cook evenly? No worries! If your salmon fillet is too thick, it might require a little extra cooking time. To ensure even cooking, consider using a lower heat and covering the pan for part of the cooking time. This way, the fish will cook through without burning the outside. Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe? Of course! If you prefer your blackened salmon tacos mild, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper from the seasoning mix. You can always add your favorite hot sauce at the end if you’re feeling adventurous! Are there any dietary considerations for these tacos? Certainly! If you have a dairy allergy, you can easily omit the feta or substitute it with dairy-free cheese for a satisfying texture. For those who prefer a plant-based option, swapping salmon with tofu or chickpeas can create a delicious variation that’s equally enjoyable! Savory Blackened Salmon Tacos with Creamy Spicy Slaw Delicious Blackened Salmon Tacos with a smoky flavor, crunchy slaw, and creamy feta for a quick dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 8 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 33 minutes mins Servings: 5 tacosCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon1 lb Salmon Fillet can use skin-on or skinless1 tsp Smoked Paprika adjust for heat preference0.5 tsp Kosher Salt or sea salt0.5 tsp Onion Powder or fresh onion0.5 tsp Garlic Powder or fresh minced garlic0.5 tsp Dried Thyme or oregano0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper or chili powder1 tsp Ground CuminFor Cooking1 tbsp Olive Oil or avocado oilFor the Tacos5 pieces Fajita-Sized Tortillas2 cups Shredded Coleslaw Mix or your favorite mix0.5 cups Feta Cheese or cotija cheese1 cup Cherry Tomatoes or diced bell peppersFor the Spicy Mayo0.25 cup Mayonnaise or vegan mayonnaise1 tbsp Hot Sauce1 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice Equipment non-stick skilletMixing bowlSpatula Method Preparation StepsIn a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, and ground cumin. Stir to mix and set aside.Pat the salmon fillet dry and coat it evenly with the seasoning mix. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.In a non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.Cook the seasoned salmon fillet, flesh-side down, for about 3 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until flaky. Let it rest for 4-5 minutes before flaking.Combine the mayonnaise, hot sauce, and lime juice in a small bowl to make the spicy mayo.Warm the tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. Assemble the tacos with salmon, coleslaw mix, feta, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the spicy mayo over the top before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1tacoCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesConsider customizing your tacos with additional toppings like diced avocado or zesty salsa verde. Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days, keeping toppings separate to prevent sogginess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
