Cajun Salmon Recipe
If you love bold flavors and easy recipes, Cajun salmon is a must-try! This dish is packed with a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the rich, flaky texture of salmon. It’s a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality seafood to your dinner table in just 20 minutes.
Equipment
- Cutting Board & Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing Bowl
- Paper Towels
- Large skillet (for pan-searing)
- Baking sheet & parchment paper (for baking)
- Tongs or Spatula
- Instant-Read Thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
For the Cajun Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust based on your Cajun seasoning’s salt content
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for extra heat
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for serving
For a Simple Side (Optional)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
- Drizzle with olive oil and rub the Cajun seasoning mix all over each fillet, ensuring full coverage.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- Pan-Searing Method (Crispy & Flavorful)
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin). Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Baking Method (Easy & Hands-Free)
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets on it.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon. It should flake easily when done.
Grilling Method (Great for Outdoor Cooking)
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Place the salmon on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until it has nice grill marks and is fully cooked.
Step 3: Finish & Serve
- Remove the salmon from heat and let it rest for a minute.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top for extra flavor.
- Serve with your favorite sides like rice, veggies, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350-400 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Fat: ~20g (healthy fats from salmon and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: ~2-4g (depends on seasoning)
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sodium: ~500-700mg (varies based on Cajun seasoning)
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High
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.