This Creamy Cajun Pepper Salmon is a tasty dish that’s both spicy and rich! The salmon is cooked to a perfect flakiness and covered in a creamy sauce with a Cajun twist. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that brings both creamy and spicy together? I love serving it with rice or veggies for a colorful, delicious meal. It always impresses my dinner guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here! If you can’t find salmon, try using trout or chicken for a different twist. Frozen salmon works too, just thaw completely before cooking.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a kick! If you don’t have it, make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of cayenne. Adjust the spices to control the heat level you like.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just note that the sauce will be less thick.
Vegetables: Red bell pepper and green beans add color and crunch. Swap them with zucchini, asparagus, or even spinach. Just adjust cooking times for softer veggies.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon can be tricky! Here are quick tips for perfectly cooked fillets:
- Dry the salmon: Ensure the skin is dry, which helps it get crispy.
- Medium-high heat is key: Preheat your skillet properly so that the salmon sizzles when it hits the pan.
- Watch for color changes: Cook until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side.
If you’re unsure, it’s better to undercook slightly and let it rest for a minute or two—carrying over heat will continue cooking it. Enjoy the wonderfully creamy results!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Pepper Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or fish broth)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection! Easy and quick for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help them get a nice sear. Then, season both sides of the salmon generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the flavor begins!
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and browned. Flip the salmon carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s just cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté them for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and starting to soften. Then, add the sliced red bell pepper and trimmed green beans. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and vibrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper to elevate the flavor. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add the Cream:
Now, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This is where the creamy texture comes in!
6. Combine and Serve:
Finally, return the salmon fillets to the pan, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Serve the delicious salmon and sauce over a bed of cooked rice, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Cajun salmon with a perfect blend of spice and richness!
Can I Use Different Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon is fantastic, you can use other fish like trout or even chicken for a similar creamy Cajun experience. Just adjust cooking times as necessary!
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Additionally, using a milder Cajun seasoning can help tone it down.
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can make the creamy sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove before adding the cooked salmon to warm it through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened.
