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Blackened Salmon Tacos

Blackened salmon tacos with creamy avocado and fresh cilantro lime

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These blackened salmon tacos are a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. They feature a spicy, crispy crust on flaky salmon paired with cool, fresh toppings for a vibrant and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 lbs salmon fillets, skin removed
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas, warmed
  • 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix all dried spices: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Drizzle salmon with 1 tbsp oil, then rub the spice mix generously over all sides of each fillet. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  4. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil.
  5. Once oil is shimmering, carefully place seasoned salmon fillets in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to form a crust.
  6. Gently flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
  7. Transfer salmon to a plate to rest for 1 minute, then flake into large chunks.
  8. While salmon rests, warm tortillas in a dry skillet, over a low gas flame, or wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave.
  9. Assemble tacos: place a warm tortilla on a plate, add flaked salmon, and top with cabbage, avocado, cheese, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

For a quick crema, mix 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt. Ensure the pan is very hot and the salmon is dry for the best crust. Do not move the salmon too soon after placing it in the pan.

Nutrition