Cajun Salmon and Shrimp: A Spicy Seafood Delight

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Cajun Salmon and Shrimp, a dish bursting with bold flavors and a hint of heat. This delightful seafood combination is seasoned with a perfect blend of Cajun spices, then seared to perfection. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the flavors of the South and create a dish that’s as exciting as it is delicious!

Ingredients

For the Seafood:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Cajun Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the Cajun seasoning.
2. Rub the salmon fillets and shrimp generously with the Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In a separate large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Arrange the cooked salmon and shrimp on a serving platter. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped fresh parsley.
7. Serve the Cajun salmon and shrimp alongside the sautéed vegetables.

How to Prepare

The key to this Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish lies in the spice blend. The mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt creates a robust flavor profile that complements the natural taste of the seafood. Be sure to pat the seafood dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere better. Cooking the salmon skin-side down first ensures a crispy skin, while the shrimp cook quickly to retain their juicy texture. Pairing with sautéed bell peppers and onions adds a sweet and savory balance to the spicy seafood.

Preparation Time

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Total time: 35 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen salmon and shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
• How can I make this dish less spicy? Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning.
• What other vegetables can I serve with this dish? Zucchini, asparagus, or green beans make excellent sides.
• Can I grill the salmon and shrimp instead? Absolutely, grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the seafood.
• What can I serve with Cajun Salmon and Shrimp? This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.