This Cajun Salmon is full of flavor with a spicy kick, perfect for anyone who loves a little zest in their meal! The creamy avocado lime sauce brings a cool balance to the spice.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just season the salmon, cook it until it’s flaky, and blend the sauce. Pair it with rice or a salad, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen salmon if that’s all you have. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. This gives you the same spicy flavor with what you likely have at home.
Avocado: For the sauce, ripe avocados are essential for creaminess. If you can’t find ripe ones, you can substitute with store-bought guacamole or even a little bit of mashed banana in a pinch, though it will change the flavor.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Use either for a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain yogurt is a great substitute. Non-dairy yogurt can also work if you have dietary restrictions.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can seem tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve perfectly flaky fish every time:
- Make sure the salmon is at room temperature before cooking—take it out of the fridge about 15-20 minutes beforehand.
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear. You want the salmon to cook evenly but not burn. Adjust heat if it starts to smoke.
- Cook until the salmon easily flakes with a fork. This usually takes 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- If you’re unsure, using a meat thermometer can help! The internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C).
With these helpful tips, you’ll create a delicious Cajun salmon dish paired with a refreshing avocado lime sauce that’s sure to impress!
Cajun Salmon With Avocado Lime Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- 1 garlic clove
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin sauce as needed)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Optional garnish: diced tomatoes and chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 10-15 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better! Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over both sides of the fillets, gently pressing so it adheres well. This will give you a flavorful crust when cooked.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, gently add the salmon fillets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness. You want them to be cooked through and nicely charred on the outside. Once done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
3. Make the Avocado Lime Sauce:
While the fish is cooking, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve:
Now, for the fun part! Spoon a generous amount of avocado lime sauce onto each plate. Place one or two salmon fillets on top of the sauce, then drizzle with a bit more sauce. For a lovely presentation, garnish with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and chopped fresh cilantro as you like. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze if desired!
Enjoy this tasty and spicy salmon dish with the cooling avocado lime sauce—it’s perfect for a refreshing, vibrant meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can create your own mix by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of thyme or oregano to achieve that spicy flavor profile.
Can I Make the Avocado Lime Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. To prevent the avocado from turning brown, press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the sauce before sealing it in an airtight container.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salmon is best enjoyed freshly cooked, but you can reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook it.