Spicy Blackened Salmon Bowl with Avocado and Cilantro Sauce

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Spicy Blackened Salmon Bowl with Avocado and Cilantro Sauce: A Flavorful and Healthy Meal

If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and healthy ingredients, look no further than this Spicy Blackened Salmon Bowl with Avocado and Cilantro Sauce. This recipe combines the smoky, spicy kick of blackened salmon with creamy avocado and a zesty cilantro sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s the perfect balance of heat, freshness, and richness that makes it the ideal meal for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.

Not only does this bowl taste amazing, but it’s also loaded with nutritious ingredients that will keep you satisfied and feeling great. Let’s dive into why this dish is such a winner and how you can easily recreate it at home!

Why You’ll Love the Spicy Blackened Salmon Bowl

There’s so much to love about this salmon bowl. Here’s why it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes:

Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Paired with fresh veggies, avocado, and a homemade cilantro sauce, this bowl becomes a balanced meal full of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
Bold and Flavorful: The blackened seasoning creates a crispy, flavorful crust on the salmon that’s spicy without being overwhelming. The cool, creamy avocado and cilantro sauce offer a refreshing contrast, making each bite an exciting flavor experience.
Customizable: This dish is highly customizable based on your preferences. Whether you prefer more heat, want to add extra veggies, or swap ingredients for what you have on hand, you can make this bowl your own.
Quick and Easy: Despite its bold flavors and eye-catching presentation, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes. You’ll be able to serve a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home, perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to compromise on taste.

Ingredients for the Spicy Blackened Salmon Bowl

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious bowl:

For the Blackened Salmon:

2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, depending on your preference)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired heat level)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Avocado and Cilantro Sauce:

1 ripe avocado
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small garlic clove (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2-3 tablespoons water (for desired consistency)

For the Bowl Assembly:

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
1 cup mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
1 small cucumber, sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Lime wedges for garnish
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Blackened Salmon

In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create your blackened seasoning blend.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and rub it in to coat both sides. Then, generously sprinkle the blackened seasoning mixture over both sides of the salmon, pressing it gently into the flesh.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until a crispy crust forms.
Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, until the salmon is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you prefer your salmon a bit more done, feel free to cook it a little longer.
Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you prepare the rest of the bowl.

Step 2: Make the Avocado and Cilantro Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, fresh cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Add water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency. You want it to be creamy but pourable, so adjust accordingly.

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