Salmon with Cajun Butter Sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin side down if applicable. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until the salmon is golden brown and just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cajun Butter Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using), allowing the spices to toast lightly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
  5. Add the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  6. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

  1. Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the Cajun butter sauce over the top. Allow the salmon to warm in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Serving

Serve the salmon with Cajun butter sauce over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad are excellent side options to complete the meal.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with:

  • Sides: Steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or garlic bread.
  • Drinks: Iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a citrus-infused mocktail.

Variations of the Recipe

  1. Mild Cajun Sauce: Omit cayenne pepper for a less spicy version.
  2. Grilled Salmon: Grill the salmon instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.
  3. Dairy-Free Sauce: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter.
  4. Shrimp Cajun Butter: Substitute shrimp for salmon to create a different take on the dish.

Health Benefits Notes

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is rich in heart-healthy omega-3s.
  • Protein-Packed: A great source of high-quality protein.
  • Spices and Herbs: Cajun spices contain antioxidants, and parsley is a good source of vitamins A and C.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

The sauce is best made fresh, but it can be reheated gently over low heat.

3. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Conclusion

Salmon with Cajun butter sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings bold flavors to the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for your family, this recipe offers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked salmon, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.