Jerk Lemon Pepper Salmon

 

Jerk Lemon Pepper Salmon

Introduction

Jerk Lemon Pepper Salmon is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold, spicy notes of Jamaican jerk seasoning with the zesty brightness of lemon pepper. This dish offers a perfect balance of heat and tang, making it a fantastic option for seafood lovers looking to elevate their salmon dishes.

Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, this salmon recipe is sure to be a hit at any dinner table, offering a taste of the Caribbean with a fresh twist.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 onion, sliced (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven (if baking):

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Prepare the Salmon:

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. In a small bowl, mix the jerk seasoning, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Generously rub this spice mixture onto both sides of each salmon fillet.

Cook the Salmon:

• Baking: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange lemon slices on top of each fillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
• Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Add the lemon slices during the last few minutes of grilling.
• Pan-Seared: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the salmon is crispy on the outside and cooked through. Add the lemon slices to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking.

Prepare the Garnish (Optional):

1. In the same skillet (if pan-searing) or a separate pan, sauté the sliced bell pepper and onion until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Serve:

1. Transfer the cooked salmon to serving plates. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and top with the sautéed vegetables (if using).
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.

Enjoy:

Serve this delicious Jerk Lemon Pepper Salmon with your favorite sides and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!