Spicy Cajun Blackened Salmon with Garlic Green Beans and Quinoa Pilaf

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Spice Mixture

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Rub the spice mixture all over the salmon fillets.

• 4 salmon fillets

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side up, and cook for 2 minutes. Flip the salmon and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 salmon fillets

Step 4: Blanch the Green Beans

Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.

• 1 lb green beans

Step 5: Sauté the Green Beans

In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the blanched green beans and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Blanched green beans from step 4
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 6: Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley and toasted almonds.

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups broth
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds

Step 7: Serve the Meal

Serve the blackened salmon with the garlic green beans, quinoa pilaf, and lemon wedges.