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When it comes to quick yet satisfying meals, Spicy Cajun Blackened Salmon Bowls stand out as a flavorful and nutritious choice. This dish artfully combines the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine with the richness of fresh salmon, creating a dining experience that is both exciting and comforting. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a dish to impress guests at a casual gathering, these bowls offer the perfect balance of spice, freshness, and convenience.

Cajun Blackened Salmon Bowls

Discover the vibrant flavors of Spicy Cajun Blackened Salmon Bowls, a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the bold spices of Cajun cuisine with the rich taste of fresh salmon, offering a satisfying and healthy option. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins, these bowls feature a base of wholesome grains, fresh greens, and colorful vegetables, all drizzled with a zesty dressing. Explore easy preparation steps, ingredient customization tips, and presentation ideas to create an unforgettable dining experience.
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Ingredients
  

For the Blackened Salmon:

2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

1 tablespoon paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust more or less to taste)

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Bowl:

1 cup cooked white or brown rice (or quinoa for a healthier option)

1 cup fresh spinach or arugula

1 medium avocado, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

Fresh lime wedges, for serving

Optional: 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped, for garnish

For the Dressing:

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1 lime

1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Blackened Spice Mix:

    - In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

      Season the Salmon:

        - Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the salmon, then generously coat each fillet with the blackened spice mix, pressing it in slightly to adhere.

          Cook the Salmon:

            - Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat until it's very hot (about 5 minutes). Add a tablespoon of olive oil.

              - Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes without moving the fish. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cooked through and blackened on the outside. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.

                Prepare the Bowl Base:

                  - In serving bowls, evenly distribute the cooked rice (or quinoa). Top with fresh spinach or arugula.

                    Add Toppings:

                      - Slice the blackened salmon and place it on top of the greens. Add the avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, corn, and red onion around the salmon.

                        Make the Dressing:

                          - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey or agave, and salt and pepper until well combined.

                            Finish and Serve:

                              - Drizzle the dressing over the salmon bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

                                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 2 servings