There’s something magical about the first warm rays of sunshine after a long winter. It’s a signal that fresh produce is at its peak and that grilling season is just around the corner. One of my favorite dishes to celebrate this season is Blackened Salmon with Charred Vegetables. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your heart with comfort. The blend of spices, the sizzle of the salmon, and the sweetness of charred veggies make this dish absolutely unforgettable.
I recall the first time I tried making blackened salmon. I was staying at a cozy lakeside cabin with friends, and we decided to fire up the grill. The marinade was simple, but the flavors exploded, creating a dish we still rave about today. Whether you’re sharing it with family on a quiet night or serving it up at a gathering with friends, this dish brings everyone together around the table. Let’s dive right in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner.
- Packed with flavor: The spices create a beautiful blend that enhances the rich taste of the salmon.
- Versatile veggies: Use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand!
- Healthful and nourishing: A fantastic source of protein paired with fiber-rich vegetables.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your blackened salmon and those delightful charred veggies.
- For the Blackened Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your spice tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic adds more punch!)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Charred Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to cook? Let’s do this! Follow these simple steps for a delicious dining experience.
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- Prep your salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better and gives you that lovely sear.
- Make the spice mix: In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix will elevate your salmon to the next level!
- Coat the salmon: Rub the spice mix generously over each fillet on both sides. Don’t be shy here; we want that vibrant flavor bursting!
- Prepare the grill (or skillet): If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. This will give you that beautiful charred crust.
- Cook the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill or skillet, skin side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on the first side until the skin is crispy and the salmon easily releases from the grill. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
Watch out! Don’t overcook the salmon; it should be slightly pink in the center for that perfect flaky texture. - Prep the veggies: While the salmon is cooking, toss your sliced bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Get those veggies coated!

- Char the vegetables: In a separate pan or grill basket, add the veggies and cook on high heat for about 5-7 minutes until they’re well-charred and tender. You want those delicious grill marks — they add flavor and texture!
- Plate it up: Arrange the charred veggies on a platter and place the blackened salmon fillets on top. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Pro Tips & Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish. Here are a few fun twists and ideas:
- Spice it up: Add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of cumin to the spice mix for an extra depth of flavor.
- Vegetable swaps: Use asparagus, bell peppers, or even corn—anything that you love or have on hand will work beautifully!
- Diet swaps: For a lower-carb option, skip the balsamic vinegar or swap it for lemon juice.
- Add a sauce: Drizzle with a yogurt dill sauce or spicy aioli for a creamy contrast to the spices. Yum!
Serving Suggestions
This blackened salmon with charred vegetables is a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. I love serving it with a side of fluffy quinoa or a hearty bed of mixed greens for a light yet satisfying meal. You could even pair it with warm crusty bread to soak up those flavorful juices!
Don’t forget a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to cool down those spicy notes. Picture this: you, a plate overflowing with vibrant colors, and the warmth of the sun shining through your kitchen window. Absolute bliss!

Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which rarely happens at my house!), fear not. Here’s how to preserve your delicious dish:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon and vegetables in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the salmon and veggies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in freezer-safe bags. They’ll keep for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat on the skillet over low heat, adding a tiny splash of oil to keep it from drying out. Or pop it in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat!
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. It’ll still taste fabulous!
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I use the oven?
Of course! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the salmon on a lined baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the salmon in the spice mix a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s perfect for meal prepping. Just divide the salmon and veggies into meal containers, and you’ve got yourself a delicious, healthy lunch ready to go!
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to make this Blackened Salmon with Charred Vegetables as I am! There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking and sharing a meal that’s packed with flavor. Once you’ve tasted that perfect spice blend, you’ll want to whip this dish up time and time again.
Don’t forget to let me know how it turned out for you! Share your thoughts in the comments or take a picture and tag me on social media. I can’t wait to hear about your special moments enjoyed over this scrumptious dish! Happy cooking!

Irresistible Blackened Salmon Charred Veggies Recipe Magic
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Discover the magic of blackened salmon paired with charred veggies Elevate your meals with this delicious recipe thats sure to impress
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g





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