A flavorful and hearty dish, Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight is the perfect choice for seafood lovers who enjoy a bit of heat. This dish combines the delicate texture of salmon with the tender juiciness of shrimp, all elevated with the bold and spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning. With colorful bell peppers and fragrant garlic, this meal offers a balance of nutrition, flavor, and simplicity, making it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Best of all, it’s a one-pan dish that requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste.
Ingredients :
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust according to spice level preference)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish and added freshness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for serving)
Preparation :
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Rinse and pat dry the salmon fillets and shrimp. Season both the salmon and shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning. Be sure to coat the seafood evenly for a robust flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon or choose a seasoning with a lower heat level.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not burnt. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is fully cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Transfer the salmon to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp and Bell Peppers
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and sliced bell peppers. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The bell peppers should soften but still maintain a slight crunch. This step ensures a balance of textures and flavors. The sweet bell peppers complement the spicy Cajun seasoning, while the shrimp absorbs all the flavors from the pan.
Step 4: Combine and Garnish
Return the cooked salmon to the skillet and arrange the shrimp and bell peppers around it. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seafood to brighten the dish and add a zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the salmon and shrimp. Garnish with additional lemon slices for presentation.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight over a bed of cooked rice for a heartier meal, or enjoy it as is for a lighter option. The rice will absorb the juices from the seafood and peppers, enhancing the overall flavor. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with a side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Cooking Notes :
- Spice Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount of Cajun seasoning and taste as you go. You can always add more seasoning later, but it’s hard to dial back the spice once it’s added. To make the dish even spicier, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Be sure to watch them closely and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Cooking the Salmon Evenly: For evenly cooked salmon, make sure the fillets are of similar thickness. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two of cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Rice: This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white or brown rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful juices, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
- Vegetables: If you want to add more veggies to the dish, you can sauté some zucchini, asparagus, or spinach alongside the bell peppers.
- Salad: For a lighter option, serve with a side salad of mixed greens, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette to complement the bold flavors of the seafood.
- Bread: Crusty bread on the side can be a great option for mopping up the delicious juices.
Tips :
- Make It a One-Pan Dish: To save time on cleanup, use the same skillet for cooking the salmon, shrimp, and bell peppers. The flavors will meld beautifully, and you’ll only have one pan to wash afterward.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook everything ahead of time and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Grilling Option: For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the salmon and shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet. Brush them with olive oil and Cajun seasoning, and grill the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side and the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side.
Prep Time : 15 minutes
Cooking Time : 20 minutes
Total Time : 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving) :
- Calories: Approx 500 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 700 mg (depends on the Cajun seasoning used)
FAQs :
1. Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and salmon, but make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick-thaw method by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.
2. Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! You can reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon or even use a milder seasoning blend. For a touch of sweetness, you can add a pinch of brown sugar to the seasoning mix.
3. What other vegetables can I use?
This dish is versatile, and you can easily swap or add vegetables. Zucchini, asparagus, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes would work beautifully with the Cajun flavors.
4. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon and shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave, being careful not to overcook.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free as written. Just ensure that your Cajun seasoning does not contain any hidden dairy products.
Conclusion :
Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight is a perfect meal for those who love a bit of heat in their seafood dishes. It’s a straightforward recipe that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and visual appeal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner with friends, this dish will impress with its bold Cajun seasoning, tender shrimp, and succulent salmon. Serve it over rice or enjoy it with fresh vegetables for a healthy and delicious dinner that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With easy preparation and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home any night of the week!
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Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients :
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust according to spice level preference)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish and added freshness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Preparation :
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Rinse and pat dry the salmon fillets and shrimp. Season both the salmon and shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning. Be sure to coat the seafood evenly for a robust flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon or choose a seasoning with a lower heat level.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not burnt. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is fully cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Transfer the salmon to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp and Bell Peppers
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and sliced bell peppers. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The bell peppers should soften but still maintain a slight crunch. This step ensures a balance of textures and flavors. The sweet bell peppers complement the spicy Cajun seasoning, while the shrimp absorbs all the flavors from the pan.
Step 4: Combine and Garnish
Return the cooked salmon to the skillet and arrange the shrimp and bell peppers around it. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seafood to brighten the dish and add a zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the salmon and shrimp. Garnish with additional lemon slices for presentation.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight over a bed of cooked rice for a heartier meal, or enjoy it as is for a lighter option. The rice will absorb the juices from the seafood and peppers, enhancing the overall flavor. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with a side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Notes
Cooking Notes :
- Spice Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount of Cajun seasoning and taste as you go. You can always add more seasoning later, but it’s hard to dial back the spice once it’s added. To make the dish even spicier, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Be sure to watch them closely and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Cooking the Salmon Evenly: For evenly cooked salmon, make sure the fillets are of similar thickness. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two of cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx 500 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg (depends on the Cajun seasoning used)
- Protein: 40g