This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish is a flavorful treat! With spicy seasoning and juicy shrimp, it’s a simple way to bring a taste of the South to your dinner table.
Honestly, who can resist perfectly cooked salmon paired with tender shrimp? I love serving it over rice or with veggies. It’s a quick meal that feels special, just like you! 🌶️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Look for fresh salmon fillets, preferably wild-caught for better flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, trout can work just as well!
Shrimp: Large shrimp add sweetness. If you’re on a budget, you can use frozen shrimp—just thaw them before cooking. If shrimp isn’t your thing, consider using chicken pieces instead.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend is key for flavor. If you can’t find it, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Adjust the heat to your preference!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk. I love the richness of heavy cream, but it might be too heavy for some.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, but you can skip it or use kale. Frozen spinach is another great option if fresh isn’t available.
How Do You Get Crispy Salmon Skin?
Getting crispy salmon skin can be tricky, but here’s how to master it:
- Start with a dry skin: Pat the skin with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Heat your skillet: Make sure it’s hot before adding the salmon. A good sear creates that crispy effect.
- Cook without moving: After placing the fish skin-side down, resist the urge to move it around for 4-5 minutes. Flip it gently to cook the other side.
This technique will help create a delicious, crispy skin—perfect for this Cajun dish!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Sauce Creamy?
To achieve a rich and creamy sauce:
- Use heavy cream as it gives a luscious texture. Ensure it simmers gently to prevent curdling.
- Scrape the pan: When adding broth, this helps lift the tasty brown bits that add flavor to your sauce.
- Add a touch of lemon juice for brightness, which complements the creaminess nicely.
With these tips, your sauce will be velvety and packed with flavor!
Cajun Salmon And Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Seafood:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Seasoning and Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or seafood broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup cooked white rice or mashed potatoes
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seafood:
Start by patting the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice golden crust! Then, season both the salmon and shrimp evenly with Cajun seasoning along with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the skillet. Cook without moving them for about 4-5 minutes until the skin gets nice and crispy. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet with the leftover oil, add the shrimp. Cook them for 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the salmon.
4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken or seafood broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Add Cream and Seasoning:
Add in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6. Wilt the Spinach:
If you’re adding spinach, stir it into the sauce now until just wilted. This adds both color and nutrition!
7. Combine Seafood and Sauce:
Carefully return the cooked salmon and shrimp to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the seafood to reheat for about 1 minute.
8. Serve!
Serve the Cajun salmon and shrimp over your choice of cooked rice or mashed potatoes. Drizzle the creamy sauce generously on top, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Enjoy your spicy, creamy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish packed with bold flavors and a touch of Southern charm!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon and Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon and shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw shrimp quickly, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. For salmon, you can thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method as well.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly!
How Spicy Is This Dish? Can I Adjust the Heat?
The spiciness largely depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or make your own blend with less cayenne pepper. Alternatively, if you want more heat, feel free to add extra seasoning or a pinch of cayenne directly to the sauce!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of cream or broth while reheating can help keep the dish creamy and moist.
