BLT: Smoky Chipotle Salmon

Let me turn you onto a new BLT combo.

Smoky Mexicali seasoned sockeye salmon, salty and smoky bacon, sliced tomato and cool, crisp lettuce sandwiched between toasted seedy bread slathered with a especially simple, from-scratch chipotle mayo. The salmon is beyond well-seasoned thanks to this from-scratch spice blend which pairs well with the crispy bacon and chipotle mayo. Sliced tomato and crisp lettuce adds texture and freshness.

So simple, deeply good. Prepare to fall in love with this one.

For this Smoky Chipotle Salmon BLT Set out:

for the chipotle mayo:

• mayonnaise – Feel free to use any mayo you prefer.
• lime juice – Gives the mayo a touch of citrus flavor and acidity.
• smoked paprika – Adds depth to the smoky flavor.
• chipotle powder – Lends a smoky and earthy flavor.
• chili powder – Adds flavor and can be mild to moderately spicy.
• kosher salt – Enhances the flavors in this chipotle mayo.

for the salmon blt:

• sockeye salmon – I use this because it’s lean and firmer than Atlantic salmon. 
• avocado oil spray – Or substitute with ghee oil or extra light olive oil spray.
• Mexicali seasoning – Or use this smoky chipotle seasoning blend. Both are great!
• whole grain bread – Use your regular! I use Dave’s Killer Bread 21 whole grain – thin slice (not sponsored) because it’s the dependable size for a filet.
• chipotle mayo – See above.
• bacon – I like center cut bacon.
• tomato – Adds sweet juicy and tangy flavor that balances out the smokiness.
• lettuce – Lends freshness, crunch and lightness to the sandwich.

In a bowl, measure and add 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice, 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder with a small pinch of salt.

Whisk to combine and refrigerate until ready to use. Making this first will allow the flavors to develop as it sits.

Working in batches, place slices of center cut bacon into a cool, large skillet. Heat on medium to medium-low, turning occasionally until fully cooked and desired crispiness. Transfer the crisp bacon to a paper towel lined plate and set a side. Repeat with the remaining bacon until all 12 ounces are cooked.

Prep and Cook the Salmon:

If you want to know the most unfussy way to remove salmon skin, this is it! Check salmon filets for any pin bones and use tweezers or your fingers to remove and discard. Place salmon skin side up on a plate. Bring a small saucepan of water to boil. Once boiling slowly pour over the skin of a filet.

Peel back the skin and discard. Repeat with remaining filets if necessary, discarding the water after each one. The hot water will not cook your salmon.

Pat the skinless salmon filets with paper towel. Place them in a clean dish or pan and spray with avocado oil. Season with 1 tablespoon of Mexicali seasoning.

Add your salmon filets, spray with avocado oil before air frying for 6 to 8 minutes (depending on thickness). You could also do this in an oven, it may take an additional minute or two, so cook until opaque and flakes easily.

Meanwhile toast the bread and slather one side of with some of the chipotle mayo.

Top the mayo with a cooked salmon filet, bacon, a slice of tomato and lettuce.

Top with your second slice of toasted bread and enjoy!

Enjoy! And if you give this Smoky Chipotle Salmon BLT recipe a try, let me know! Snap a photo and tag me on twitter or instagram!

What Is Air Frying?

• An air fryer is a counter top appliance that requires less oil (anything from a few spritz to 1 tablespoon) yet produces crispy food that rivals most deep fried foods. By using circulating hot air, it moves at a high speed so the food tends to cook in a fraction of the time.
• There are a bunch of different makes and models of air fryers. A regular at dinner did the research (as he’s known to do) and found this air fryer [affiliate] to be one of the go-to. But do your research and purchase one that fits your lifestyle.

How is Air Frying Healthier?

• Air frying is healthier because only a thin layer of oil coats the food and when the hot air comes in contact it will crisp. Saving you a ton of fat and calories (without sacrificing any flavor!) because food is not being submerged in a vat of hot oil.
• Keep in mind, not all air fryers are equal. Some preheat and some do not. Some are smaller than others therefore you may need to work in smaller batches to air fry.