jerk lemon pepper salmon

3. Season the Salmon

Once your salmon fillets are ready, remove them from the marinade (if marinated) and pat them dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with olive oil. Sprinkle the jerk seasoning evenly on top of each fillet, followed by the lemon pepper seasoning. Use a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you love extra citrus, drizzle the fish with fresh lemon juice at this stage as well.

4. Cook the Salmon

• For Oven-Baked Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
• For Grilled Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should still be slightly pink in the center and tender to the touch.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven or grill. Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or thin slices of lemon for a burst of freshness and a pop of color. Serve your Jerk Lemon Pepper Salmon with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Jerk Lemon Pepper Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks, creating a well-rounded, flavorful meal. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with it:

• Coconut rice or jasmine rice to complement the spiciness of the jerk seasoning.
• Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to add a touch of smokiness and crunch.
• A green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the salmon.
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries to add a creamy or slightly sweet element to the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: The jerk seasoning gives the salmon a fiery kick, while the lemon pepper adds brightness and freshness. Together, they create an exciting contrast that will have your taste buds dancing.
• Healthy and delicious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this recipe both flavorful and nutritious.
• Quick and easy: Whether you bake it or grill it, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special occasion dish.
• Versatile: You can adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of jerk seasoning or lemon pepper. Add more spice for a fiery version, or tone it down for a milder kick.

Conclusion

Jerk Lemon Pepper Salmon is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the best of both worlds: the spicy heat of jerk seasoning and the tangy freshness of lemon pepper. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is a winner every time.

Give it a try, and let the bold, aromatic flavors of jerk and citrus take your salmon to the next level!