If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances bold spice with tender, flaky seafood, you have to try this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe. It’s a stunning combination of succulent salmon fillets and juicy shrimp, all coated in a vibrant Cajun seasoning that delivers that unmistakable kick of flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms everyday seafood into a mouthwatering meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Every bite boasts a harmony of smoky paprika, zesty lemon, and fresh parsley that makes it impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe. Each element is simple but essential, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish come alive on your plate.
- Salmon fillets (2, 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- Large shrimp (1/2 lb, peeled and deveined): Adds a tender seafood contrast to the rich salmon.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps sear the seafood perfectly and adds a smooth richness.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon, divided): This spice blend provides that signature bold and spicy taste.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky depth to the seasoning.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Gives a luscious buttery finish to the shrimp.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Lemon juice (from half a lemon): Adds a fresh, bright acidity that balances the spices.
- Chopped parsley: For a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.
- Lemon wedges: Perfect for serving and adding extra zest at the table.
How to Make Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Seafood
Start by patting your salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure you get a nice sear instead of steaming the seafood. Rub each salmon fillet with half a tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle generously with half the Cajun seasoning plus the smoked paprika. Toss the shrimp in the remaining olive oil and Cajun seasoning until well coated—this seasoning mix will bring all that wonderful Cajun heat to every bite.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes—this helps render the skin crispy and locks in moisture. Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for just 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning it. Add the shrimp, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely pink and become opaque. Just before finishing, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly with that citrusy tang.
Step 4: Plate and Garnish
Arrange the cooked shrimp over or alongside the salmon on your serving plates. Sprinkle chopped parsley generously for a fresh, herbaceous lift, and don’t forget those lemon wedges—they’re the perfect finishing touch for bursts of fresh acidity.
How to Serve Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley is the classic garnish that brightens the rich, spicy flavors and adds a lovely green splash. Lemon wedges are essential, allowing every diner to add an extra lift of juice just before eating, cutting through the seasoning with refreshing citrus brightness.
Side Dishes
This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—think fluffy white or brown rice to soak up all those pan juices, creamy mashed potatoes for comfort, or roasted vegetables that add a caramelized sweetness and a textural contrast. Each option complements the boldness of the seafood without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, place the salmon on a bed of rice with the shrimp artfully arranged on top. Drizzle a little melted butter or even a light garlic cream sauce over everything, then finish with your garnishing parsley and lemon wedges. For a casual gathering, serve in shallow bowls with a sprinkling of scallions for extra color and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, making for an easy and flavorful lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked salmon and shrimp separately if needed. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. For best quality, use within one month. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To keep the seafood tender, reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can cause the seafood to dry out or become rubbery. Warm just until heated through, then add a squeeze of lemon to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp or salmon, but be sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This ensures better texture and prevents excess moisture during cooking.
How spicy is the Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe?
The level of spice is moderate and balanced by smoky paprika and lemon, but you can easily adjust it by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce if you want to turn up the heat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Cajun seasoning blend doesn’t contain any gluten additives. Always check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to get crispy salmon skin?
Pat the skin dry before cooking and start cooking salmon skin-side down in a hot skillet with a little oil. Resist flipping it too soon so the skin has time to crisp up nicely and release easily from the pan.
Is it possible to bake instead of pan searing?
Yes, you can bake the salmon and shrimp, but you may lose some of the smoky charred flavors that come from pan searing. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes until cooked through is a great alternative.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe enough for anyone who loves vibrant, flavorful seafood dishes that come together quickly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without complicated techniques. Once you’ve made it, expect to keep this straightforward yet bold recipe in your regular rotation—because delicious doesn’t have to be difficult!
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Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe offers a flavorful and spicy seafood dinner that is quick to prepare on the stovetop. Salmon fillets and large shrimp are seasoned with Cajun spices, seared to perfection in a hot skillet, and finished with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges, this dish is perfect for a hearty yet healthy main course.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Oils & Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Other Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare seafood: Pat the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing and seasoning adherence.
- Season salmon: Rub each salmon fillet with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle half the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika evenly over the fillets. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Season shrimp: Toss the shrimp with the remaining olive oil and the other half of the Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is coated.
- Sear salmon: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crisp. Flip and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and cook shrimp: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add lemon and toss: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the shrimp, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp alongside or over the salmon. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Serve this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to make a complete meal.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce while seasoning.
