Cajun Spiced Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crispy blackened salmon topped with a sweet-tart mango salsa for a restaurant-quality weeknight dinner. This american-inspired seafood (low-carb, gluten-free) ready in about 22 minutes blends Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.1 (9 ratings) Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 2 American cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder, pressing gently to adhere.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon fillets in skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Step 3: Flip salmon and cook for 3-4 minutes more until internal temperature reaches 145°F and salmon is opaque throughout.
  4. Step 4: While salmon cooks, combine 1/2 cup diced mango, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice in a small bowl. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  5. Step 5: Remove salmon from skillet and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve topped with mango salsa immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cajun Spiced Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cajun Spiced Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cajun Spiced Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cajun Spiced Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Cajun Spiced Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa low-carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low-carb, gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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