Preparing the Cajun Blackened Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the salmon fillets. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon fillets 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until blackened crust forms and fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.