Salmon with Cajun Butter Sauce

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 (6 oz.) skinless salmon fillets

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp salt

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Juice of 1 lemonFor the Cajun Butter Sauce:

4 tbsp unsalted butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1–2 tsp Cajun seasoning (or a bit of the same salmon spice mix)

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for tang)

1–2 tsp honey (optional, for balance)

1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

 

Instructions

1. Prep the Cajun Seasoning Blend

In a small bowl, mix together:

Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

This is your homemade Cajun spice blend. Reserve 1–2 tsp of it for the butter sauce.

2. Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry.

Rub both sides with olive oil.

Sprinkle the Cajun spice blend evenly over all fillets.

Drizzle lemon juice over the top. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes if you have time.

3. Cook the Salmon

Heat a large skillet (nonstick or cast iron) over medium-high heat.

Add a little oil if needed, then sear salmon fillets for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked to your liking (internal temp ~125–130°F for medium).

Remove from pan and set aside.

4. Make the Cajun Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

Add butter and let it melt.

Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add 1–2 tsp of the reserved Cajun spice blend, lemon juice (if using), and honey (if using). Let simmer for 1 minute.

Stir in chopped parsley if desired.

5. Serve

Spoon the Cajun butter sauce over each salmon fillet.

Serve with your choice of sides: rice, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or salad.