This Cajun Shrimp and Salmon dish is packed with flavor! The shrimp and salmon are perfectly seasoned, and the creamy garlic sauce takes it to another level of deliciousness.
It’s quick to make, which means more time to enjoy! I love serving it over pasta or rice, and it always impresses my family and friends. Who doesn’t love a dish that looks fancy but is super easy to whip up? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If you can’t find them, try using other fatty fish like trout or tilapia. Canned salmon is another option, though it will change the texture.
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp add a nice touch. If shrimp is hard to find, chicken breast or even firm tofu can be a good substitute. You’ll miss the seafood flavor, but it’ll still taste great!
Cajun Seasoning: Cajun seasoning adds a flavorful kick. If you don’t have this on hand, make your own blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust to your spice preference!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or heavy coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. It’ll change the flavor a bit, but it’s still creamy and delicious.
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Cooked Salmon and Shrimp?
Cooking salmon and shrimp just right can be tricky. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the fish and shrimp dry for better browning.
- Cook salmon skin-side down if using skin. This holds it together and adds flavor.
- For shrimp, cook until they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture—about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Always let the salmon rest a few minutes before serving; this helps keep it moist.
Using these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked seafood every time!
Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Seafood:
- 1 lb salmon fillets (2 fillets, skin off)
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Green beans, steamed (for serving)
- Mashed potatoes (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It includes a few minutes for prep—like seasoning the seafood—and then you’ll spend around 20 minutes cooking everything together. A great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Seafood:
Start by patting the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better! Next, season both the salmon and shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, making sure to rub it in well.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets. Cook each side for about 4 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Once ready, take the shrimp out and set them aside with your warm salmon.
4. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s aromatic. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Combine and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken or seafood broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Next, stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Season the Sauce:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the lemon juice and taste. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the salmon and shrimp to the skillet, gently spooning the creamy garlic sauce over them. Let everything warm through for another 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve Your Dish:
Dish out the Cajun shrimp and salmon over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes, with steamed green beans on the side. Drizzle any extra creamy sauce over the top and pop on some chopped parsley for a burst of color!
Enjoy this rich, flavorful, and elegant Cajun shrimp and salmon dish paired with creamy garlic sauce! It’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
FAQ for Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Seafood for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and salmon! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and immerse them in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Is This Recipe Spicy?
The spiciness depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning by half or choose a mild blend. You can always add more spice later if you want!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick.