If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor, this creamy Cajun salmon is the perfect dish for you. Combining succulent salmon fillets with a rich, savory sauce, this recipe brings together the bold spices of Cajun seasoning with the smoothness of cream and Parmesan cheese. The result is a perfectly balanced meal that offers a satisfying blend of heat and creaminess. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Start by gently blotting the salmon fillets with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet and warm it over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if using skin-on salmon.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the salmon is golden and cooked through.
Step 2: Make the Cajun Sauce
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and the remaining Cajun seasoning.
- Let the spices cook for about 1 minute to bring out their flavors
Step 3: Add the Cream and Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits from the salmon and tomatoes.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Then, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking to combine everything into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
Step 4: Return the Salmon to the Pan
- Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Spoon some of the creamy Cajun sauce over the top of the salmon to coat it.
- Let the salmon simmer in the sauce for an additional 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Serve the creamy Cajun salmon hot with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Conclusion:
This creamy Cajun salmon dish is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The bold Cajun spices combined with the rich, creamy sauce create a satisfying contrast that enhances the natural flavors of the salmon. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or an impressive dish to serve to guests, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of Cajun comfort in every bite!