Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe

Cajun Salmon and Shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of salmon with the bold, spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. The crispy, pan-seared salmon pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp, making this dish a seafood lover’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. It’s the perfect balance of spice and savory goodness, all cooked up in one pan!

Why You’ll Love Cajun Salmon and Shrimp

Here’s why this dish is so amazing:

Flavor Explosion

The Cajun seasoning provides a perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and depth of flavor that complements both the salmon and shrimp. The combination of these two proteins in one dish is absolutely delicious.

Quick and Easy

This recipe is incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, and it cooks up in no time—making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Healthy and Protein-Packed

Both salmon and shrimp are lean sources of protein that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish as healthy as it is flavorful.

Versatile

You can serve this Cajun salmon and shrimp on its own, or pair it with rice, quinoa, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

One-Pan Meal

Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. No need to fuss over multiple pots and pans!

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this delicious Cajun Salmon and Shrimp:

Salmon Fillets

Use fresh, skinless salmon fillets for the best results. The rich, flaky texture of salmon pairs wonderfully with the Cajun spices.

Shrimp

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best for this dish. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a nice contrast to the salmon.

Cajun Seasoning

The star of this dish, Cajun seasoning adds bold flavors and a bit of heat. You can buy pre-made Cajun seasoning or make your own with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps to sear the salmon and shrimp, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Lemon

Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors of both the salmon and shrimp, providing a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the fish.

Garlic

Garlic adds an aromatic depth of flavor that elevates the dish. It pairs perfectly with both the shrimp and salmon.

Butter

Butter adds richness and flavor to the dish. You’ll use it to sauté the shrimp and salmon for that perfect golden brown crust.

Parsley

Chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh, herby note and a beautiful pop of color to the finished dish.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card above!)

Instructions

Ready to make this flavorful Cajun Salmon and Shrimp? Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by patting the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both the salmon and shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides.

2. Cook the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if they have skin). Sear for 4-5 minutes until the salmon is golden and crispy on the outside. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the shrimp. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to sauté it with the shrimp.

4. Combine the Salmon and Shrimp

Once the shrimp are cooked, return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over both the salmon and shrimp and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve immediately. You can serve the Cajun salmon and shrimp with your favorite sides, like rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 450
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 45g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 900mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Cajun Salmon and Shrimp

Over Rice

Serve the Cajun salmon and shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

Pair this dish with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers for a balanced and colorful meal.

In a Salad

For a lighter option, serve the Cajun salmon and shrimp over a fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a citrusy vinaigrette.

Additional Tips

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild version of the seasoning. You can also add a little honey to balance out the heat.
• Cook the Shrimp First: If you prefer your shrimp to be more tender, you can cook them first and set them aside while you cook the salmon. Add them back into the pan at the end to warm through.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked, so be sure to cook it until it just flakes with a fork and is still moist inside.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Q2: Can I use a different fish instead of salmon?
A2: Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other firm white fish like tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish.

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
A3: Add more cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning to make the dish spicier. You can also add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in the oven?
A4: Yes, you can bake the salmon and shrimp in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the seasoned salmon and shrimp on a baking sheet, and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results.

Q6: Can I use other seasonings for this dish?
A6: Absolutely! You can swap Cajun seasoning for Old Bay, Creole seasoning, or even a homemade spice mix with paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.

Q7: Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
A7: Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skillet while cooking the salmon and shrimp for added flavor and nutrition.

Q8: Can I use coconut oil instead of olive oil?
A8: Yes, coconut oil can be used instead of olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile. It works well with the Cajun seasoning!

Q9: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A9: While the shrimp and salmon are best served immediately, you can prep the seasonings and even cook the shrimp and salmon ahead of time. Reheat gently in a skillet when ready to serve.

Q10: Can I use shrimp with shells on?
A10: Yes, you can use shrimp with shells on. Just peel and devein them before cooking for easier eating.

Conclusion

Cajun Salmon and Shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that brings together two of the most popular seafood options in a delicious, spicy combination. With its quick prep time, healthy ingredients, and amazing flavor, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests. Enjoy the smoky, spicy, and savory goodness with every bite!

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