Jerk Salmon: A Spicy, Flavor-Packed Dinner
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special weekend dinner, this jerk salmon recipe will not disappoint. It’s packed with rich, deep flavors, a little heat, and a whole lot of satisfaction. Serve it with a fresh salad, coconut rice, or roasted veggies for a complete meal. Plus, it’s a great way to add more healthy fish to your diet without sacrificing taste!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Shallow dish or ziplock bag
- Tongs or Spatula
- Grill, skillet, or baking sheet
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Basting Brush (Optional)
Ingredients
For the Jerk Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning store-bought or homemade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried or fresh
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper or 1/2 teaspoon cayenne adjust for spice preference
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking, if pan-searing
- Lime wedges for serving
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish, optional
Instructions
Make the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine jerk seasoning, olive oil, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), allspice, thyme, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, and chopped Scotch bonnet pepper (or cayenne). Stir well to combine.
- Marinate the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over them, making sure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor).
Cook the Salmon
- Grilling Method: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the fish flakes easily.
- Pan-Searing Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked salmon, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve with your favorite sides like coconut rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350-400 kcal
- Protein: ~35g
- Fat: ~20g (healthy fats from salmon and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: ~10g (from honey/brown sugar and seasoning)
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sodium: ~600mg (varies based on soy sauce and seasoning)
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High (thanks to salmon)
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.