Description
Salmon is a beloved fish known for its rich, buttery texture and high nutritional value. When paired with bold Cajun spices, it transforms into a dish bursting with flavor that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This Cajun salmon recipe is easy to prepare, packed with vibrant seasonings, and sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to spice up your meals, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless) – fresh or thawed
- Cajun seasoning – store-bought or homemade
- Olive oil – for pan-searing or brushing onto the salmon before cooking
- Lemon wedges – for garnish and added freshness
- Optional: Garlic butter sauce or fresh parsley for serving
Instructions
Prep Your Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better and ensure a crispy exterior.
If the fillets have skin, leave it on—it helps keep the fish moist during cooking and adds texture when seared.
Season Generously
Rub olive oil over each fillet to help the spices adhere.
Sprinkle Cajun seasoning generously on both sides of the salmon.
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the mix if you prefer a milder spice level.
Choose Your Cooking Method
Pan-Seared:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until crispy.
Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Baked:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place seasoned fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
Grilled:
Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
Grill salmon for 4–5 minutes per side until perfectly charred and cooked through.
Garnish and Serve
Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving.
Garnish with lemon wedges and sprinkle fresh parsley if desired.
Serve with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
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Notes
Choose wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon moist—it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning.
Try drizzling garlic butter or creamy lemon dill sauce for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg