This Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon is a tasty treat that brings the heat! With a rich and creamy sauce full of Cajun spices, it’s perfect for those who love bold flavors.
I can’t resist the creamy goodness paired with perfectly cooked salmon. Serve it over rice or pasta, and you have a meal that’ll make your taste buds dance! 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. If salmon is not available, try using trout or even chicken breast for a different twist.
Cajun Seasoning: This is key for that bold flavor! If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne can be a good substitute.
Cream: Heavy cream makes this dish rich and delicious. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely in this dish, but kale or swiss chard can be used instead if you prefer. They add different flavors and textures.
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well for cooking the salmon. You could use canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. I personally prefer butter for that extra richness!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky, but here’s a simple method to help you nail it every time! The goal is to achieve a crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and moist.
- Start with a hot skillet to create a nice crust. Medium-high heat works best.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the salmon in batches if needed.
- Cook the salmon skin-side down first if it has skin. This helps it crisp up beautifully.
- Only flip it once, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.
- If you’re unsure, you can use a food thermometer; it should read 145°F in the thickest part of the fish.
Now you’re ready to make a Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon that’s sure to impress! Enjoy cooking it as much as you’ll enjoy eating it!
How to Make Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Veggies and Sauce:
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cooked rice or pasta, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire dish will take about 30-35 minutes to prepare. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and fancy enough for guests! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and about 20-25 minutes cooking. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Sprinkle Cajun seasoning evenly over both sides of each fillet, making sure it’s well-coated.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown on one side. Then, flip the fillets and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped red onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Add the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors mix well.
5. Add Creaminess:
Pour the heavy cream and chicken (or vegetable) broth into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Lower the heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6. Add Spinach:
Now, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they have wilted down, which should take about 2 minutes. This adds a beautiful color and extra nutritional boost to the dish!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of that creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes, warming the salmon back up and letting those flavors meld together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon over a bed of cooked rice or pasta. Drizzle plenty of that luscious sauce over the salmon and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright touch. Enjoy this delightful, creamy dish!
This step-by-step guide makes it easy to prepare a delicious Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon. With its rich flavors and satisfying creamy sauce, you will surely make this a go-to recipe!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. You can also balance the spice by adding a little more cream and broth to the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in a pan over medium-low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the salmon again.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or kale. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on how quickly they cook.