Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked?

Yes, but the flavor will be less complex. Smoked paprika adds a distinctive smoky depth that regular paprika can't match. If you use sweet paprika, consider adding a tiny pinch of liquid smoke to your salmon before seasoning.

Can I make this blend ahead of time?

Absolutely! I recommend making a double or triple batch and storing it in an airtight jar. It keeps for 6-12 months and makes weeknight cooking so much faster.

Does this seasoning work on frozen salmon?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it very dry before applying the seasoning. Excess moisture prevents the spices from adhering properly and keeps the fish from developing a nice crust.

Is this seasoning spicy?

No, this blend is savory and smoky but not hot. There's no chili powder or cayenne, so it's family-friendly and works for people who don't enjoy spicy food.

This Magic Salmon Seasoning Is My Go-To for Easy Meals

Magic Salmon Seasoning

Print Recipe

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4.9 from 7 reviews

Let this tasty salmon seasoning work its magic on your fillets! This blend makes the fish taste incredible whether it’s baked, pan seared or grilled.

Author: Sonja Overhiser
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: About 6 tablespoons 1x
Category: Seasoning
Method: Mixed
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons smoked paprika or sweet paprika
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon allspice

Instructions

Whisk the ingredients together in a small bowl. Transfer to an airtight container or jar. Store for 6 months to 1 year in a cool, dry place. How to season salmon: Use 1 tablespoon salmon seasoning for every 1/2 pound (8 ounces) of salmon.
For grilled salmon: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (375 to 450F). Pat 1 pound fish completely dry with paper towels. Rub it with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and 2 tablespoons of the seasoning blend. Grill the salmon skin side up for 3 to 5 minutes (where the flames aren’t directly touching the fish), until grill marks appear and it releases from the grates. Flip and cook another 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon, until flaky and just pink at the thickest portion and the internal temperature is 125 to 130 degrees.
For pan-seared salmon: Pat 1 pound fish completely dry with paper towels. Rub it with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and 2 tablespoons of the seasoning blend. Go to pan-seared salmon for cooking instructions.
For baked salmon: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place 1 pound salmon on oiled foil on a baking sheet. Pat it dry, sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and 2 tablespoons seasoning. Bake the salmon for 10 to 16 minutes, depending on thickness, until just tender and pink at the center (the internal temperature should be between 125°F to 130°F in the center).

Notes

Sweet variation: Add 1/2 to 1 tablespoon brown sugar for a sweet and savory variation.

Find it online: https://www.acouplecooks.com/salmon-seasoning/

*Magic* Salmon Seasoning

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Magic Salmon Seasoning