Name: Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 ripe avocados; 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option); 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes); 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick); 2-3 tablespoons water, to thin to desired consistency; Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice); Black beans; Corn kernels; Chopped red onion; Diced tomatoes; Lime wedges; Tortillas (corn or flour); Shredded lettuce

Ingredients

2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 ripe avocados

1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)

1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)

2-3 tablespoons water, to thin to desired consistency

Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

Black beans

Corn kernels

Chopped red onion

Diced tomatoes

Lime wedges

Tortillas (corn or flour)

Shredded lettuce

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

Step 3: For best flavor, marinate the salmon in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes (optional).

Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat until shimmering.

Step 5: Place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down if skin is on. Sear for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon releases easily.

Step 6: Flip the salmon and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, grill on medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Step 8: Remove the salmon from heat and let it rest a few minutes before serving.

Step 9: Halve the avocados, remove pits, and scoop flesh into a blender or food processor.

Step 10: Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 11: Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water tablespoon by tablespoon to reach desired consistency.

Step 12: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for 30 minutes for best flavor (optional).

Step 13: Prepare rice, beans, corn, or tortillas while salmon cooks or rests.

Step 14: Flake the cooked salmon gently with a fork.

Step 15: Assemble your dish:

Bowls: Start with rice, black beans, and corn. Top with flaked salmon, red onion, diced tomatoes, and avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Tacos: Fill warmed tortillas with shredded lettuce, flaked salmon, red onion, tomatoes, and avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Plates: Serve salmon alongside rice, beans, and a side of avocado lime crema with lime wedges and cilantro.

Step 16: Garnish and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter crema with extra protein.

Adjust cayenne pepper for more or less heat in the avocado lime crema.

For crispy skin, make sure the pan is hot before adding salmon and avoid moving it too soon.

Try serving with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Marinate the salmon longer for more intense Cajun flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?

The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate level of spiciness with smoky and savory notes. You can adjust the amount or choose a milder blend if preferred.