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Cajun Honey Butter Salmon

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Written By Hayyat

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Introduction: Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is the perfect fusion of bold, spicy Cajun flavors and the sweetness of honey, creating a deliciously balanced dish. The salmon is pan-seared to golden perfection, and the honey butter sauce adds an extra layer of richness and flavor that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is simple to make, but packed with vibrant flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy healthy salmon with a delicious, savory twist.

This recipe includes a homemade Cajun seasoning for the salmon, a rich honey butter sauce to complement the spice, and a few easy steps to bring it all together.


Ingredients:

For the Cajun Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade – see below)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for an extra smoky flavor)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Cajun Honey Butter Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp honey (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning (If Homemade)

If you don’t have store-bought Cajun seasoning, it’s easy to make at home. Combine the following ingredients to make your own Cajun seasoning blend:

  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust based on your preferred spice level)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Mix everything together and store in an airtight container. This will make enough for this recipe and extra for future use!

Step 2: Season the Salmon

  1. Pat the salmon dry: Use paper towels to gently pat the salmon fillets dry. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice sear.
  2. Season the salmon: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning generously over both sides of each salmon fillet. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For an extra smoky touch, you can also sprinkle a little smoked paprika on top.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

  1. Heat the pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets).
  2. Sear the salmon: Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. You want a golden, crispy crust to form. Don’t move the salmon while it’s cooking to allow the crust to form properly.
  3. Flip the salmon: Carefully flip the fillets over and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon reaches your desired level of doneness. The internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked, or slightly less for medium-rare.
  4. Remove from heat: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make the Cajun Honey Butter Sauce

  1. Melt the butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any flavorful bits left in the pan from the salmon.
  2. Add honey and seasonings: Once the butter is melted, stir in the honey, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes a silky, golden sauce.
  3. Add lemon juice: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) for a zesty kick. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more honey for sweetness or more Cajun seasoning for heat.

Step 5: Serve the Salmon

  1. Drizzle with sauce: Place the cooked salmon fillets on serving plates. Spoon the Cajun honey butter sauce generously over each fillet, ensuring each one is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.
  2. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of fresh citrus. You can also serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.

Notes:

Tips for Perfect Salmon:

  • Salmon doneness: The cooking time for the salmon will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. If you have thinner pieces, check the doneness sooner. The fish should flake easily with a fork when fully cooked, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the fillet.
  • Skin-on vs skinless: Skin-on salmon fillets tend to hold together better during cooking and can get crispier when seared. If you prefer skinless fillets, the recipe works just as well, but be gentle when flipping the fish as skinless fillets are more delicate.
  • Make it spicier: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance. If you like it spicy, add extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the honey butter sauce.

Side Suggestions:

  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sweet potatoes pair beautifully with this dish and complement the Cajun spices.
  • Rice or Quinoa: Serve the salmon with a side of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the flavorful honey butter sauce.
  • Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the salmon and honey butter sauce.

Total Time:

  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 20 minutes

Conclusion: This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a perfect combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. The Cajun seasoning adds a kick, while the honey butter sauce delivers a rich, decadent finish. The salmon cooks quickly and easily, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Paired with a variety of sides, this dish is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold, flavorful meals! Enjoy!

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