Description
This Cajun Salmon Avocado Lime recipe features perfectly seasoned and seared salmon with a creamy, tangy avocado lime crema. Served with rice, black beans, corn, and fresh toppings, it makes for a vibrant and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed as bowls, tacos, or plated dishes. The smoky Cajun spices paired with the refreshing lime crema brings a balanced and delicious twist to salmon.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 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
Avocado Lime Crema
- 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
Accompaniments and Garnishes
- 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
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season the Salmon: 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.
- Marinate (Optional): For enhanced flavor, refrigerate the salmon with the seasoning for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Heat until the oil shimmers.
- Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden, and the fish releases easily from the pan.
- Flip and Cook: Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Alternative Cooking Methods: You can also bake (400°F for 12-15 minutes), grill (medium-high for 4-5 minutes per side), or air fry (400°F for 8-10 minutes) the salmon.
- Rest: Remove the salmon from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Avocado Lime Crema: Halve the avocados, remove pits, and scoop flesh into a blender or food processor. Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and optional cayenne pepper.
- Blend: Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water gradually to achieve desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning as needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes for better flavor, if time allows.
- Prepare the Base: While the salmon cooks or rests, prepare rice, black beans, and corn, and warm tortillas if using.
- Flake the Salmon: Gently break the salmon into flakes with a fork.
- Assemble Bowls: Layer a bowl with rice, black beans, and corn. Top with flaked salmon, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and drizzle avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, flaked salmon, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
- Plate the Dish: Serve the salmon fillets alongside rice, black beans, and a side of avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Cajun Salmon Avocado Lime meal.
Notes
- Marinating the salmon for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor but is optional if short on time.
- If you prefer a lighter dip, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in the crema.
- To prevent salmon from sticking while grilling, oil the grill grates well before cooking.
- Adjust cayenne pepper in the crema for desired spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- This recipe is versatile for serving as bowls, tacos, or plated entrees.
- Use skin-on salmon for crispier texture; skinless for easier serving.
- Leftover avocado lime crema can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cajun salmon, avocado lime crema, seafood dinner, healthy salmon recipe, easy salmon, Cajun seasoning, avocado sauce, fish tacos, salmon bowls
