Basil Lemon Brown Sugar Salmon Rub

Sweet, citrusy, and savory rub with brown sugar and basil and fresh lemon, perfect for cooking salmon.

This Basil Lemon Brown Sugar Salmon Rub is a flavorful seasoning blend that beautifully complements salmon’s natural taste. The mix of brown sugar, black pepper, smoked paprika, sea salt, dried basil, and garlic powder creates a sweet, smoky, and savory profile, enhanced by fresh lemon zest. A spritz of lemon juice while cooking adds a subtle tanginess, making this a refreshing and satisfying meal sure to impress.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon coarse ground sea salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of lemon to spritz the salmon while cooking

Instructions

Mixing the Rub
Combine brown sugar, black pepper, smoked paprika, coarse sea salt, dried basil, garlic powder, and lemon zest in a small mixing bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Applying to Salmon
Generously coat the salmon with the rub, ensuring an even spread on all sides.

Cooking the Salmon
Grill, bake, or pan-sear the salmon according to your preferred method. Occasionally spritz fresh lemon juice over the salmon while cooking for a citrusy boost.