This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish brings a fun kick to your dinner table! It’s packed with juicy salmon and tender shrimp, all coated in bold, spicy Cajun seasoning.
You can make it in just a flash! I love serving it with some rice or a fresh salad. It’s a great way to spice up a weeknight meal without too much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are great, but you can also use frozen ones. Just make sure they’re thawed before cooking. If salmon isn’t your thing, try using trout or even tilapia as a substitute!
Shrimp: Large shrimp give the dish a nice bite, but you can use smaller shrimp if that’s what you have. If you want a different protein, chicken chunks work well too!
Cajun Seasoning: I love the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, but if you want it milder, use less or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme. You can customize it to your taste!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half and half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Salmon Without Overdoing It?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky, but it’s all about timing. Start by patting the fish dry to get a good sear. Heat your pan to medium-high; this way, the skin will get nice and crispy.
- Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on the skin side.
- Don’t rush to flip it! Let it form a crust before turning it over.
- After flipping, cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s just opaque in the middle.
- If you’re uncertain, use a fork to check; it should flake easily when done.
Cajun Salmon And Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless as preferred
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, divided
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shallots, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or seafood broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Mashed potatoes or rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. With about 10 minutes of preparation and an additional 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seafood:
Start by patting the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear when cooking! Next, season both the salmon and shrimp liberally with Cajun seasoning on all sides. Set them aside.
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets in the pan and sear for about 4-5 minutes on the skin side (or one side if skinless), until a lovely crust forms. Carefully flip the salmon 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 on a plate.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the seasoned shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. When cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside with the salmon.
4. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet. Melt the butter, then add the minced garlic and chopped shallots. Sauté them until fragrant and softened (around 2 minutes). Pour in the chicken broth and give it a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add Cream and Lemon:
Mix in the heavy cream and lemon juice, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly for about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, giving it that perfect flavor.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the salmon and shrimp to the skillet, gently spooning some sauce over the top. Let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes, allowing those flavors to blend beautifully.
7. Serve:
Plate up some mashed potatoes or rice on your dishes. Top with the Cajun salmon and shrimp, drenching it in that creamy sauce. Finish by garnishing generously with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant and appetizing presentation!
Enjoy this flavorful, creamy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish that’s perfect for an impressive yet easy dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen salmon, just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method to speed it up. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure a great sear.
What Can I Substitute for Shrimp?
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute with chicken breast cut into chunks or even scallops. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon and shrimp.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick!
