This Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon is a real treat! The salmon is perfectly seared and topped with a rich, creamy sauce that packs a flavorful punch. It’s sure to get your taste buds dancing!
Honestly, I can never get enough of this dish. It’s quick to make, and I love serving it with rice or veggies. You might find yourself making this dish more than once a week! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here, and I recommend using wild-caught if possible for the best flavor. If salmon is not available, you could use trout or even chicken breast, though cooking times will vary.
Cajun seasoning: This mix gives the dish its signature spice. If you don’t have it, make your own using a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne. Adjust to your taste!
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. The texture may change slightly, but flavor will still shine!
Sun-dried tomatoes: They add a delightful tangy sweetness. You can swap them for cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers if you prefer a fresh touch.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce, but feel free to use kale or arugula as alternatives. Just chop them smaller so they cook down nicely.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it every time! Start by patting the fillets dry. This helps create a nice sear, giving the salmon a crispy exterior.
- Use medium-high heat in the skillet. This allows the salmon to cook evenly and get that golden crust.
- Cook for about 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Look for a nice golden color and a slightly flaky texture.
- If you prefer your salmon less cooked, watch closely and pull it out sooner; residual heat will cook it a bit more off the stove!
Enjoy preparing your Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with these tips!
Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooked white rice or your preferred side, for serving
- Fresh chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy Spicy Creamy Cajun Salmon dish will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick and delicious—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to get a good sear! Next, rub both sides of each fillet evenly with the Cajun seasoning, then set aside.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets. Let them sear for about 4 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have a lovely golden-brown color. Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, stirring for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Yum!
4. Make it Creamy:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken (or vegetable) broth, mixing it well. Stir in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper (adjust the heat level to your liking) along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce, cooking just until the spinach wilts—this should take about 1-2 minutes. It will turn your sauce a beautiful green!
6. Bring it All Together:
Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the rich sauce over them. Allow everything to warm together for another 2 minutes.
7. Final Touches:
Taste the sauce and adjust it with salt and black pepper as needed. It’s all about your personal taste here!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the spicy creamy Cajun salmon over cooked white rice or your favorite side dish, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Dig in and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or submerge the sealed salmon in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure a great sear.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you crave extra heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also consider using a spicier Cajun seasoning or adding diced jalapeños for more flavor and heat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out the salmon. You may want to add a splash of cream or broth to revitalize the sauce.
What Can I Serve with This Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, but you can also serve it with quinoa, pasta, or even over a bed of sautéed vegetables for a lighter option. A fresh salad would complement the flavors nicely as well!