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Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salads
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Blackened Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • For the Caesar Salad:
  • 2 romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade, recipe below)
  • For the Garlic Croutons:
  • 2 cups cubed baguette or day-old bread
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Homemade Caesar Dressing (optional):
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1½ tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Make the Garlic Croutons : In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in bread cubes and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and crisp, stirring occasionally (5–7 minutes). Set aside to cool.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Blackened Seasoning : In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  • Step 3: Season the Salmon : Pat the salmon fillets dry. Brush each with olive oil or melted butter, then coat evenly with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  • Step 4: Cook the Salmon : Heat a cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil. Place salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 3–4 minutes until a dark crust forms. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes, depending on thickness. Remove and rest briefly.
  • Step 5: Make the Caesar Dressing (Optional) : Whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Step 6: Assemble the Salad : In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing. Toss gently to coat.
  • Step 7: Serve : Divide salad among plates, top each with a salmon fillet, sprinkle with garlic croutons, and serve with lemon wedges.