This Cajun salmon is full of flavor with a spicy kick, perfectly paired with a creamy avocado lime sauce. It’s like a party on your plate!
I love how quick and easy this dish is to make. Just season, cook, and blend that sauce – it’s ready in no time. Don’t forget to serve it with a side of smiles! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If you can’t find salmon, try using trout or tilapia. They also work well with Cajun spices. Some people even enjoy this recipe with chicken or shrimp!
Cajun Seasoning: This blend is key for that classic Cajun flavor. You can buy it pre-made or mix your own with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. If you want milder heat, use less cayenne.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess to the sauce. For a twist, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or silken tofu for a lower-calorie option. If you’re allergic to avocados, use a creamy dressing instead.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: I prefer Greek yogurt as it adds a tangy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt works well – just choose an unsweetened version!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but following a few steps helps you nail it every time. The goal is juicy, tender fish with a nice crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet – this ensures a good sear. Heat the olive oil until it shimmers, but don’t let it smoke.
- Place the salmon skin side down for an even cook. Don’t move it around!
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side before flipping. Look for a golden brown crust.
- Flip the salmon gently using a spatula. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until done. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
- Let it rest briefly after cooking. This helps keep it moist!
Cajun Salmon With Avocado Lime Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt, to taste
For The Avocado Lime Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 lime, juiced (plus lime wedges for serving)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in just 20 minutes! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps create a nice crust when cooking. Lightly season both sides of the salmon with salt and rub the Cajun seasoning evenly all over. Be generous with the seasoning to really bring out that Cajun flavor!
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets (skin side down if they have skin). Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on one side, letting it develop a beautiful crust. Then, flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 4-5 minutes until they’re cooked through and flaky. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Avocado Lime Sauce:
While the salmon is cooking, it’s time to whip up that tasty sauce! In a blender or food processor, add the ripe avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro leaves, and garlic clove. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
4. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate! Place the cooked Cajun salmon on a plate and generously spoon the avocado lime sauce over each fillet. For an added touch, garnish with extra chopped cilantro and some lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.
5. Enjoy:
Serve immediately with some fluffy rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad on the side. Don’t forget to dig in and enjoy the delicious balance of spicy and creamy flavors!
This dish perfectly combines the spicy warmth of Cajun seasoning with the cool, refreshing taste of avocado lime sauce. It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure a nice crust when cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own using a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the proportions based on your heat preference!
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon and Sauce?
Store any leftover salmon and avocado lime sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon will last for up to 3 days, while the sauce can be stored for around 2 days. Just give the sauce a stir before using, as it may separate slightly.
Can I Make the Avocado Lime Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time! Just prepare it as instructed, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent browning, consider adding a bit of extra lime juice. Give it a quick blend again before serving to refresh its texture!