This enchanting salmon spice mixture elevates any salmon to a wonderfully flavorful dish in no time. Crafted with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and aromatic spices, it’s suitable for grilled, baked, or pan-seared salmon.
Looking to enhance your salmon’s flavor? Give my enchanting salmon seasoning a try! I refer to it as magical because it truly transforms a dull fillet into something extraordinary.
It’s effective with all types of salmon and is a harmoniously balanced spice mixture that highlights the fish’s natural richness. Once I discovered this flavor combination, I ceased using any other seasoning recipes. All you need is a jar of this salmon seasoning, and you’re set whether you grill, bake, or pan fry!
Why This Is the Ultimate Salmon Seasoning
I assure you, everyone will remark on your use of this salmon seasoning! Throughout the years, I’ve received numerous compliments on this recipe.
While developing it, I drew inspiration from Old Bay seasoning, renowned for seafood, and combined it with elements from my favorite blackened seasoning. The outcome is a blend that tastes as if it were made in a restaurant, utilizing spices that are already in your kitchen!
The key ingredient is smoked paprika. This Spanish spice imparts a gentle smoky complexity and is worth sourcing. Every time I include it in my spice blends, people take notice!
5 Star Reader Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This seasoning is fantastic!! I added about 2 tbsp of soft brown sugar as we prefer our salmon with a hint of sweetness and it turned out perfect. The best salmon I’ve enjoyed in quite some time.” -Shelly E.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what comprises this salmon seasoning blend, in addition to kosher salt:
– Smoked paprika: This is a Spanish variant of paprika derived from peppers that are smoked over a flame. You can locate it in the spice aisle of most supermarkets; it’s also accessible online. It may be labeled pimentón, Spanish smoked paprika, or sweet smoked paprika.
– Garlic powder: Provides savory, aromatic qualities that complement fish beautifully.
– Onion powder: Contributes complexity without being overpowering.
– Thyme: A traditional herb for seafood that lends subtle earthy tones.
– Celery seed: This is the secret component from Old Bay that unifies everything.
– Cumin: Infuses warmth and a touch of earthiness.
– Allspice: This also adds underlying warmth (the secret component from blackened seasoning).
How to Season Salmon Flawlessly
The ratio is crucial here. Use 1 tablespoon of seasoning for every ½ pound of salmon. This ensures complete coverage without overwhelming the fish’s flavor.
– For grilled salmon or pan-seared salmon: Thoroughly pat 1 pound of fish dry with paper towels (this aids in forming a good crust). Rub it with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and 2 tablespoons of the seasoning blend.
– For baked salmon: Position 1 pound of salmon on oiled foil on a baking sheet. Pat it dry, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and 2 tablespoons, and bake.
Storage and Shelf Life
You can store your homemade salmon seasoning blend in an airtight container for 6 months to 1 year. Naturally, it’s at its best when freshest!
Spices typically last in a cool, dry environment for 8 months to 1 year. This spice blend can breathe new life into older spices.
More Salmon Seasoning Ideas
If you want to explore beyond this blend, here are my other favorite methods to season salmon:
For additional inspiration, check out my guide to the finest sauces for salmon.
Dietary Notes
This salmon seasoning recipe is vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free, naturally sweet, refined sugar-free, low-carb, and keto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute regular paprika for smoked? Yes, but the flavor will be simpler. Smoked paprika provides a unique smoky depth that regular paprika lacks. If you opt for sweet paprika, consider adding a little pinch of liquid smoke to your salmon prior to seasoning.
Can I prepare this blend in advance? Certainly! I suggest making a double or triple batch and storing it in an airtight container. It remains good for 6-12 months and expedites weeknight meals.
Does this seasoning work on frozen salmon? Yes, but ensure to fully thaw the salmon and pat it extremely dry before applying the seasoning. Excess moisture hinders the spices from sticking properly and prevents the fish from forming a good crust.
Is this seasoning spicy? No, this blend is savory and smoky but not hot. There’s no chili powder or cayenne, making it suitable for families and those who prefer milder foods.
Magic Salmon Seasoning
Allow this delicious salmon seasoning to perform its magic on your fillets! This blend enhances the fish’s flavor whether it’s baked, pan seared, or grilled.