This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp dish is packed with flavor! Tender salmon and juicy shrimp come together with spicy Cajun seasoning for a tasty meal.
It’s super quick to make, making it perfect for busy nights. I like to serve it over rice or with a fresh salad for an easy dinner that feels fancy! 🌶️🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish, but you can also use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Mahi-mahi or tilapia can be a good substitute if you want a different flavor.
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best, but if you prefer smaller shrimp, that’s fine too! For a seafood-free option, try switching to diced firm tofu or even chicken, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Cajun Seasoning: This mix of spices really brings the heat! If you want a milder taste, reduce the amount. You can also make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, feel free to substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious!
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Shrimp and Salmon?
Sautéing shrimp and salmon to perfection can be tricky! The key is to avoid overcooking them, which can lead to rubbery textures. Here’s how to do it:
- For salmon, heat your skillet to medium-high and allow the oil to shimmer before adding the fillets. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown.
- For shrimp, they should only take 2-3 minutes to cook. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Watch them closely!
Remember, you can always remove them just before they look perfectly cooked, as they’ll continue to cook in the residual heat!
Cajun Salmon And Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin off)
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
For The Vegetables and Sauce:
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes (or your preferred side)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun salmon and shrimp meal will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick, fulfilling, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon and Shrimp:
Start by patting the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps them get a nice sear. Sprinkle both sides of the salmon and shrimp evenly with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. This seasoning is what gives this dish its signature bold flavor!
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate and keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic:
Now, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything to combine and bring it to a gentle simmer. This sauce will become creamy and delicious, perfect for pairing with the salmon and shrimp!
6. Add Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. It will shrink down, adding a lovely color and flavor to the dish.
7. Bring it All Together:
Now, return the shrimp and salmon to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Heat everything together for about a minute to ensure it’s all warm.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to serve! Place the Cajun salmon and shrimp on plates with some sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy them alongside mashed potatoes or your side of choice. Relish in the amazing flavors of this dish!
This dish delivers a bold Cajun-spiced crust on salmon, tender shrimp, and a creamy mushroom-spinach sauce that ties all the flavors beautifully together! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon and Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for quicker results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well! For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the Cajun salmon and shrimp in advance, but it’s best to cook the shrimp and salmon fresh for the most appealing texture. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration—just add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
What Should I Serve with Cajun Salmon and Shrimp?
This dish pairs great with mashed potatoes, but you can also serve it over rice, quinoa, or alongside a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables also make a lovely side dish!