Transform simple salmon into seafood bliss with this delicious all-purpose seasoning blend.
My father is a sailor, and my mother comes from an island nation, so it’s a bit ironic that I didn’t turn out to be a seafood lover. Indeed, both of my parents absolutely love fish, and they cooked it quite often when I was growing up. From squid to mussels to shrimp, I was exposed to all sorts of ocean fare. Despite all of this, I somehow never developed a taste for seafood—even lobster (and we used to live in Maine!).
Fast forward to me marrying a guy whose favorite food is, you guessed it, seafood. So, even though I don’t eat fish, I figured that I should at the very least learn how to cook it. It didn’t take long to learn that salmon is one of the easiest fish to cook, since it’s firm and doesn’t fall apart too easily. Plus, it has a mild, non-fishy flavor that’s easy to change up with different seasoning combinations.
I’d describe this particular spice blend as a great all-purpose seasoning. It brings out the best flavor of the salmon without covering up the richness of the meat. There’s a little bit of sweetness from brown sugar, which is beautifully balanced with savory notes from garlic and mustard powder. Paprika and ginger give it a little kick of smokiness and spice, and tarragon adds a subtle anise flavor.
All you have to do is rub the salmon with some olive oil or melted butter, lightly pat the seasoning into the flesh side of the fish, and cook it using your preferred method, whether it’s baking, pan-searing, or grilling. Either way, this seasoning is guaranteed to make your salmon super tasty!
What are some other ways to season salmon?
This seasoning is super versatile because it pairs well with so many different side dishes. However, there are lots of other ways you can season salmon. Lemon and herb is a classic flavor combo—simply combine fresh lemon zest with some garlic and fresh or dried dill, parsley, or chives. If you’re craving Asian flavors, combine Chinese five-spice powder, sesame seeds, garlic, and ginger. Or, go bold with Cajun flavors using a combination of cayenne pepper, paprika, thyme, oregano, and garlic.
How do I store leftovers?
This seasoning can be made ahead of time and stored in your pantry in an airtight container for up to a year. However, I’d recommend using it within 6 months for maximum freshness.
If you’ve opted to season the salmon and cook it immediately, allow any leftover fish to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the leftovers in a freezer bag (wrap the fish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil first) or airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Warm the salmon up in a 275°F oven for 15 minutes or in a skillet over low heat on the stove with a bit of olive oil or butter. Avoid microwaving it, as it can dry the fish out.
Serving suggestions
It’s easy to pair seasoned salmon with a wide array of sides. I recommend serving it with either Classic Scalloped Potatoes or Orzo Pasta. To round out the meal, add another veggie side like Roasted Asparagus And Mushrooms or Sautéed Spinach. Have room left for dessert? This Salted Caramel Ice Cream would be a heavenly way to end the meal.
How To Season Salmon
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Measure out all of the ingredients into a bowl.
- Mix the ingredients together until thoroughly combined. Either use the spice blend immediately, or transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
It sounds great. What temperture and how long do you cook it????? You totally left that out
Hi Joanne – you can bake the salmon at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. If you have a thermometer the idea is to reach internal temperature of 145°F. For pan-searing, cook for about 4 minutes skin-side down, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Otherwise you can poach it or broil it. Enjoy!
For me, this is the perfect blend of seasoning for salmon! Love it!
That’s great to hear, thanks so much!