Blackened salmon with scampi

One of our favorite restaurants in town is called The Talk.  It is owned by the Keuchkarian Family, who has been in the restaurant business for years.  One of the specials that they frequently have is blackened salmon with shrimp.  I order it every time they have it, and it is so delicious!  The flavors are fresh, light and crisp from the lemon.  I like to pair it with steamed asparagus and pearl couscous that I mix with a little bit of pesto and parmesan cheese.  It is a quick and easy delicious dinner, especially during the lenten season.  You could certainly substitute another firm fish such as swordfish or a thick cut of cod or haddock if you prefer.  I make my own blackening seasoning, but there are several that you can buy at the grocery store that are good too.  Happy eating!

Blackened salmon with scampi

for the salmon:

1 lb. salmon filet

1 tbs. blackening seasoning (either store bought or see recipe below)

1 tbs. olive oil

Heat a cast iron or non stick pan over medium high heat. Dry salmon with a paper towel on flesh and skin side.  Rub salmon with seasoning generously on both sides. Place salmon, skin side down,  in hot pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes.  Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until cooked through and the surface is well browned.  Place 2-3 large shrimp on the salmon, and spoon on some sauce.

for the scampi:

6-8 large shrimp, shelled and deveined

3 tbs. butter

1 lemon juiced

3 cloves garlic, minced

salt and pepper to taste

Season the shrimp on both sides with salt and pepper. Place 2 tbs. butter in a medium size pan over medium heat.  Once melted, add the shrimp and cook about 2 minutes each side, till opaque and cooked through.  Remove to a place.  Add the garlic to the pan and cook for about 2 minutes.  

Squeeze lemon juice in pan, and add remaining tbs. of butter.  Add shrimp back to pan to warm.

Blackening seasoning:

2 tbsp Paprika
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional but adds a nice smoky flavor!)
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp ground dried thyme
1 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp brown sugar

Mix all ingredients in a bowl.  Store in an airtight container in a cool dark place.