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Savory Sheet Pan Blackened Salmon Recipe with Fresh Mango Avocado Salsa

sheet pan blackened salmon - featured image

A quick and easy sheet pan recipe featuring blackened salmon with a smoky, spicy crust paired with a fresh, bright mango avocado salsa. Perfect for busy weeknights or summer dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin on or off depending on preference
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat tolerance)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for coating and crispness)
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
  4. Generously sprinkle the spice rub on all sides of the salmon, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare or longer for well done.
  7. While the salmon cooks, combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and lime juice in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper and gently toss.
  8. Remove salmon from the oven and let rest for 3 minutes.
  9. Serve each fillet topped generously with the fresh mango avocado salsa.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a good crust. Do not overcrowd the pan to allow crisping. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Prepare salsa just before serving to keep avocado fresh. For dairy-free, use oil instead of butter. Spice level can be adjusted by cayenne amount.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened salmon, sheet pan recipe, mango avocado salsa, quick dinner, healthy salmon, summer recipe, spicy salmon, fresh salsa