Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that delivers bold flavor with minimal fuss, this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe absolutely deserves a spot in your dinner rotation! Juicy salmon fillets and plump shrimp come together in a sizzle of Cajun spices, finished with a buttery lemon drizzle that ties everything together. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or wanting to impress guests without spending hours at the stove, this one-pan wonder brings zesty New Orleans vibes straight to your table. There’s zero compromise on tenderness or taste, and each vibrant bite is anything but boring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of staple ingredients form the backbone of this memorable Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe. Each item adds something vital, from the earthiness of paprika to the kick of Cajun spice, giving layers of flavor, stunning color, and that signature Southern warmth.
- Salmon Fillets: Rich, buttery salmon pairs perfectly with bold Cajun seasoning and firms up beautifully in the skillet.
- Large Shrimp: Quick-cooking and sweet, they soak up every bit of spice and lemony goodness.
- Olive Oil: Ensures a crispy sear on the salmon and keeps everything juicy.
- Cajun Seasoning: The heart of this dish; bring as much heat or as little as you like!
- Paprika: Boosts both color and mild smokiness.
- Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth without overpowering the seafood.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into balance.
- Butter: Lends creaminess and helps caramelize the shrimp.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze at the end brightens the whole pan and cuts through the richness.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): Adds fresh, herbal notes and welcome pops of color.
How to Make Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Seafood
Start by patting the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. This may sound basic, but it’s the secret to those irresistibly golden, crisped edges later on. Dry seafood also means the seasonings will cling better, working their magic on every single bite.
Step 2: Mix Up the Cajun Spice Blend
In a small bowl, combine your Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This extra step lets the flavors marry together, so every pinch delivers a balanced punch. Don’t be shy—taste your spice mix and adjust the level of heat to fit your preference.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon and Shrimp
Rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets and all over the shrimp. Using your hands, gently press the seasoning in to make sure it sticks for maximum flavor payoff. If you have a bit of extra time, let the seasoned seafood sit for up to 30 minutes to marinate—totally optional, but adds even more oomph!
Step 4: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down if they have skin, laying them away from you to avoid splatters. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a blazing golden crust and just-cooked center. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Step 5: Cook the Cajun Shrimp
In that same skillet (don’t clean it, all those tasty browned bits are flavor gold!), add the butter. Once melted and bubbly, toss in the shrimp and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque. This goes quickly, so stay close—overcooked shrimp are nobody’s favorite.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Parsley
Squeeze half a lemon over both the salmon and shrimp while they’re still warm. That hint of citrus takes the whole dish up a notch. If you’re feeling extra, sprinkle on the chopped parsley for vibrant color and a zippy finish.
How to Serve Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A final scatter of bright green parsley not only looks gorgeous but adds a light, fresh accent that counters the rich, spicy notes of the Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe. If you have it on hand, a few lemon wedges or a sprinkle of sliced green onions really wakes up the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish loves company! Classic choices are fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables—each one soaks up the flavorful pan juices. For a southern-inspired touch, a side of cheesy grits or a simple green salad also pairs perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Stack the salmon over a bed of garlicky spinach, then spoon the shrimp and pan sauce over the top for an elegant layered presentation. Or try serving everything family style on a large platter for a festive, communal meal that invites everyone to grab a fork.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe completely, then wrap or transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate and enjoy within 2 days for the best flavor and texture. The spice mix holds up beautifully, so reheated portions are just as tasty!
Freezing
If you want to make this ahead, cooked salmon and shrimp freeze surprisingly well. Arrange portions in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a resealable bag. Use within 1 month, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, gently reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat with a splash of water or butter to keep things moist. Avoid microwaving if possible—especially for the shrimp—to prevent overcooking. Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon to revive the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon or shrimp for this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before seasoning, so you still get that irresistible crisp on the outside.
How spicy is the Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe?
The spice level is wonderfully customizable—use less Cajun seasoning for a milder dish or add a pinch of cayenne to turn up the heat. Make it your own!
What kind of skillet works best?
Heavy-bottomed skillets like stainless steel or cast iron hold heat evenly and are ideal for getting both salmon and shrimp perfectly seared and juicy inside.
Can I swap in other seafood?
Definitely! This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe is just as delicious with other firm fish like cod, or even scallops—just follow the same steps and adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes! Grab-and-go lunches never looked so good, especially atop a cold rice salad or with roasted veggies. Just store the components separately and assemble right before eating for ultimate freshness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that’s quick, full of flavor, and sure to wow anyone lucky enough to try it, you can’t beat this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table in 20 minutes. Go ahead—give it a try and watch how fast it disappears!
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Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and flavorful Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe that is quick and easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Shrimp:
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon and Shrimp: Pat dry the salmon fillets and shrimp. Mix Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture on the salmon and shrimp.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook salmon for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, cook shrimp in butter for 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
- Finish and Serve: Squeeze lemon juice over shrimp and salmon, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
- Adjust spice level to taste.
- Marinate the seafood for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet + 1/4 pound shrimp
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
