This Creamy Cajun Pepper Salmon is a tasty treat! It’s packed with flavor from the spicy Cajun seasoning, making each bite exciting. The creamy sauce makes it rich and smooth.
Whenever I make this, the kitchen smells amazing, and I can’t wait to eat! I love serving it with rice or veggies for a delicious meal. It’s a quick dish that feels fancy without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish, rich in flavor and healthy fats. If fresh isn’t available, frozen salmon works well too; just thaw it completely before cooking.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a wonderful kick! You can make your own blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount or use a milder seasoning mix.
Cream: Heavy cream creates a rich sauce, but you can substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just note that coconut milk will change the flavor slightly.
Red Bell Pepper: While it adds sweetness, you can replace it with other veggies like zucchini or spinach. Frozen mixed bell peppers are also a good shortcut if fresh ones aren’t on hand.
Rice: I love serving this over white rice, but you can use brown rice for more fiber, or even quinoa for a protein-packed twist.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but this method ensures a flaky inside with a crispy outside. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with dry salmon—pat it with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps in getting that nice crust.
- Use medium-high heat when adding salmon to the skillet. This gives it that golden crust quickly without overcooking the inside.
- If your salmon fillets are thick, consider lowering the heat slightly after flipping to cook through without burning.
- Use a fish spatula to flip gently to keep the fillet intact but ensure that it has a good sear.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Pepper Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Vegetable Sauce:
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or fish stock
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to add flavor. This will help create a nice crust when you cook the salmon.
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 applicable). Cook for about 4-5 minutes until you see a golden crust forming. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through. After cooking, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until they turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth or fish stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything well and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly as it cooks.
5. Finalize the Dish:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper as needed. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, gently placing them into the creamy sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the salmon and let it heat for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy Cajun pepper salmon over a bed of cooked rice, making sure to drizzle extra sauce and vegetables on top. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Cajun Pepper Salmon! It’s packed with flavor and always a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry to get a nice sear.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. You could also add a splash of hot sauce while cooking for an extra kick!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a dairy-free option like coconut milk. Just note that coconut milk will add a slightly different flavor to the sauce, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.