Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe·5 from 44 reviews

If you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and just downright delicious, you’ve got to try this Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but comes together in a snap—perfect for weeknights or impressing friends. The salmon’s smoky, spicy crust pairs beautifully with the creamy, zesty avocado salsa. Trust me, it’s fan-freaking-tastic and will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Flavors: The smoky spice rub adds warmth while the creamy avocado salsa brings freshness and a hint of tanginess.
  • Simple Prep: You only need a handful of ingredients and 20 minutes—no complicated steps or fancy gadgets required.
  • Textural Contrast: Crispy broiled salmon skin against smooth avocado salsa creates a delightful bite.
  • Versatility: Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even meal prep with leftovers that reheat well.
Spice Rubbing Salmon with Avocado Salsa, flavorful salmon with avocado topping, healthy salmon dinner, quick salmon recipes, easy seafood lunch - A large, flat piece of cooked fish with a reddish-brown seasoning crust covers the entire top surface, showing a single long vertical line in the center. The fish is lying on a white marbled surface with some seasoning scattered around it on the left side. The edges around the fish are slightly darker, giving a roasted look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

All the ingredients in this Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe come together like a dream—each playing a key role to bring out the best in the dish. I always recommend using the freshest salmon you can find and ripe avocados for maximum flavor and creaminess.

Spice Rubbing Salmon with Avocado Salsa, flavorful salmon with avocado topping, healthy salmon dinner, quick salmon recipes, easy seafood lunch - Flat lay of a fresh salmon filet with bright orange-pink flesh and smooth skin, a small white bowl of smoked paprika powder in deep red color, a small white bowl of ground cumin in warm brown, a small white bowl of garlic powder in pale off-white, a small white bowl with coarse salt crystals, a small white bowl containing golden olive oil, a small white bowl with amber honey, three ripe green avocados diced into chunky cubes, a small bunch of fresh cilantro with vibrant green leaves, a small white bowl filled with clear pale red wine vinegar, a small white bowl holding bright green lime juice, a small white bowl with fiery red pepper flakes, a single whole garlic bulb with clean white papery skin, and a small white bowl with additional salt crystals, all carefully arranged in a perfectly symmetrical, realistic proportion flat lay, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Salmon filet: Go for wild-caught if possible; it has richer flavor and firmer texture that stands up well to the spice rub.
  • Garlic powder: Adds a punch of savory depth without overpowering the salmon.
  • Smoked paprika: This is the magic ingredient—smoky, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy, it gives the salmon its irresistible crust.
  • Ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth that complements both the spice and the salsa.
  • Salt: Critical for seasoning and bringing all the flavors forward.
  • Olive oil: Helps the spices stick to the salmon and keeps it moist during cooking.
  • Honey: Just a touch balances the spices with subtle sweetness.
  • Avocados: Creamy and buttery, they’re the perfect base for the zesty salsa.
  • Fresh cilantro: Bright herbaceous note to lighten the rich avocado and salmon.
  • Red wine vinegar & lime juice: Adds essential acidity—this wakes up the flavors and keeps the salsa vibrant.
  • Red pepper flakes: A little heat that cuts through the creamy salsa just right.
  • Garlic clove: Fresh garlic in the salsa adds a little zing and aroma.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I’m all about making recipes your own, and this Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe is no exception. I often play around with the spice levels or add my twist to the salsa depending on what’s in season or what I’m craving.

  • Variation: Sometimes I swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder if I want an extra smoky kick. It’s fantastic but just a note—it’s a bit more intense, so adjust to taste.
  • Dietary Modification: For a keto-friendly meal, this recipe is already perfect, but you could serve it over cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
  • Seasonal Change: In summer, I add diced mango or tomatoes into the avocado salsa for a sweet and colorful twist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, pat the salmon dry really well with paper towels—this step is key because it helps the spice rub stick perfectly and encourages the skin to crisp up. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, honey, and olive oil until it forms a paste. Rub this seasoning all over the flesh side of your salmon filet. I like to get in there with my hands—it’s fun and ensures every inch is covered! Place your salmon skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Bake then Broil for Perfect Crisp

Slide the salmon into the oven and bake it for 10-12 minutes, depending on thickness. You want the salmon to be just cooked through but still tender inside. Next, switch your oven to broil and broil the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step gives the top a gorgeous browned, slightly crispy finish—totally worth the extra watchful eye. Keep an eye on it during broiling so it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Avocado Salsa

While your salmon is baking, whip up the avocado salsa. In a bowl, gently toss together diced avocados, chopped fresh cilantro, red wine vinegar, lime juice, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. I usually taste and adjust the acidity or heat here—if you like it more tangy, add a bit more lime juice; if you want it spicier, a sprinkle more red pepper flakes does wonders. Be gentle with stirring so the avocado stays chunky and fresh, not mushy.

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Once the salmon is out of the oven, top each portion generously with avocado salsa. The combination of warm, spice-rubbed fish with the cool, creamy salsa is out of this world. Grab a fork and dig in!

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Pro Tips for Making Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe

  • Use Room Temperature Salmon: Letting your salmon sit out for 15 minutes before cooking helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
  • Don’t Skip the Broil Step: Broiling the last few minutes is what creates that crave-worthy, slightly charred crust—totally worth the watchful eye.
  • Taste Your Salsa: Adjust acidity and spice in the salsa to your liking before serving—this is where you can make it perfect for you.
  • Prep Ahead: You can prep the salsa a few hours ahead and keep it chilled, but add the avocado last minute to avoid browning.

How to Serve Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe

Spice Rubbing Salmon with Avocado Salsa, flavorful salmon with avocado topping, healthy salmon dinner, quick salmon recipes, easy seafood lunch - A large, rectangular piece of cooked salmon with a crispy, deep orange-brown skin on the bottom layer sits on a white marbled surface. On top of the salmon is a thick layer of chunky, bright green avocado salsa mixed with finely chopped herbs and small bits of red pepper flakes. Thin slices of lime rest on the avocado salsa, adding a pop of light green color. The overall look is fresh and vibrant, with natural textures visible in the salmon’s flaky interior and the creamy avocado topping. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping this salmon with extra fresh cilantro leaves and a quick squeeze of lime just before serving. Sometimes I add a few thinly sliced radishes for crunch and a pop of color—plus, they add a peppery bite that’s a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

I usually serve this dish with a simple side like cilantro-lime rice or quinoa to soak up all those bright flavors. Roasted veggies like asparagus or sweet potatoes also pair beautifully, especially when seasoned with a little salt and smoked paprika to echo the salmon’s rub.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the salmon on a bed of fresh arugula, scatter avocado salsa around the plate artistically, and drizzle with a chili-lime crema. It makes it look restaurant-worthy without extra fuss, and everyone feels like it’s a treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), place the salmon and avocado salsa in separate airtight containers and refrigerate. The salsa may darken a bit, so adding a squeeze of lime before serving freshens it up nicely.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing the avocado salsa since avocados can turn mushy and lose their vibrant flavor, but the spice rubbed salmon freezes well on its own. Just wrap tightly and use within a month for best quality.

Reheating

When reheating salmon, gentle is key. I reheat mine in a low oven (around 275°F) wrapped in foil to keep it moist without drying out. Then, I add fresh avocado salsa right before serving for that creamy freshness.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen salmon for this Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe?

    Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge and pat it very dry before applying the spice rub. This will ensure it cooks evenly and the spice mixture sticks well.

  2. Can I make the avocado salsa spicier?

    Yes! Feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even a finely chopped jalapeño for extra heat. Just remember to taste as you go so it doesn’t overpower the creamy avocado and salmon flavors.

  3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

  4. How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?

    Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still looks moist inside. Baking at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes usually hits the sweet spot for a 1.5-pound filet. The broiler step crisps the top without overcooking the fish.

  5. Can I substitute the avocado salsa with something else?

    You could swap the avocado salsa for mango salsa or a cucumber-tomato salad for freshness, but the creamy avocado really complements the spice rubbed salmon uniquely, so I’d recommend giving it a try!

Final Thoughts

This Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that feels impressive but is so straightforward to make—perfect for busy days when you want great flavor without fuss. Every time I make it, someone asks for the recipe, and I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do. So go ahead, give it a whirl—you’ve got a winner on your hands!

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Spice Rubbed Salmon with Avocado Salsa Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 44 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful and easy-to-make Spice Rubbed Salmon topped with a fresh and zesty Avocado Salsa. This dish combines smoky and savory spices with creamy avocado and bright citrus for a delicious and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Spice Rubbed Salmon:

  • 1.5 pound salmon filet
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey

Avocado Salsa:

  • 3 avocados, diced
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking the salmon.
  2. Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon filet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better seasoning adherence.
  3. Make Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, honey, and olive oil, stirring until well mixed.
  4. Rub Salmon: Apply the seasoning blend evenly on the flesh side of the salmon. Place the salmon on a baking sheet skin side down.
  5. Bake Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Broil for Crispness: Turn on the broiler and place the salmon under it for 3 minutes until the top is browned and crispy.
  7. Prepare Avocado Salsa: In a small bowl, gently combine diced avocados, fresh cilantro, red wine vinegar, lime juice, red pepper flakes, minced garlic, and salt to taste.
  8. Serve: Top the baked salmon with the avocado salsa and serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh salmon filet for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes in avocado salsa to control the spiciness.
  • Allow the salmon to rest a few minutes after broiling before serving for optimum juiciness.
  • You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice if preferred.
  • If you don’t have a broiler, finishing the salmon under high heat in the oven will also work but monitor closely to avoid burning.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

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