Blackened Salmon with Lemon & Sautéed Greens

Blackened Salmon with Lemon & Sautéed Greens

Serves: 2
Total time: ~20 minutes
Healthy: high protein, omega-3s, low carb

Ingredients

For the salmon

• 2 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ¼–½ tsp cayenne (to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 lemon (for slices + juice)

For the greens

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3–4 cups spinach, kale, or collard greens (your choice)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning

Instructions

1. Season the salmon

1. Pat salmon dry.

2. Mix all dry spices together.

3. Coat the salmon evenly on all sides.

4. Drizzle with a little olive oil.

2. Sear the salmon

1. Heat a skillet (cast iron or heavy pan) over medium-high until hot.

2. Add a thin layer of oil.

3. Add salmon, skin-side down if skin-on.

4. Cook:

   • 3–4 minutes on the first side

   • Flip and cook 2–3 minutes on the other

   • Squeeze fresh lemon over top as it finishes

Salmon should be slightly blackened on the outside and flaky inside.

3. Cook the greens

1. In a separate pan (or the same one after the salmon), heat 1 tbsp oil.

2. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.

3. Add greens and cook until wilted (2–4 minutes).

4. Season with salt, pepper, and a small pinch of Cajun seasoning.

5. Finish with a squeeze of lemon.

Serve

Plate the salmon over the sautéed greens and add lemon wedges on the side.
Optional: top with chopped green onions or a small drizzle of honey for balance.