Cajun Salmon & Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the South right to your dinner table. With its rich and creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned seafood, this recipe is both comforting and satisfying. It’s a great option for family dinners or special occasions, sure to impress everyone who tries it.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The combination of salmon and shrimp adds a fantastic variety of textures and flavors, while the creamy garlic herb sauce ties everything together beautifully. It’s a quick meal that can be on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering.
How to Make Cajun Salmon & Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 10 large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Cracked pepper & pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Directions:
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Season & Sear: Pat the salmon and shrimp dry, then rub them with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sear the salmon skin-side down in a hot skillet for 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and charred.
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Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the cream and broth, then whisk in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Season with pepper and simmer until slightly thickened. Finally, stir in the chopped herbs.
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Assemble & Serve: Spoon the hot, garlicky cream sauce over the seared salmon and shrimp. Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little heat.
How to Serve Cajun Salmon & Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce
Serve this dish warm, ideally over a bed of rice or alongside fresh greens. The creamy sauce pairs well with simple sides like steamed vegetables or garlic bread. Don’t forget the lemon wedges, which add a lovely brightness to each bite.
How to Store Cajun Salmon & Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume them within 2 days for optimal freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the seafood.
Tips to Make Cajun Salmon & Shrimp in Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps to create a nice sear.
- You can substitute shrimp with other seafood like scallops or additional salmon if you prefer.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to fit your spice preference.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a light cream alternative. You can also use different herbs based on your liking. Basil or dill works wonderfully as substitutes.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q2: What can I serve with Cajun Salmon & Shrimp?
A2: This dish goes well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. A side salad or steamed vegetables also pairs nicely.
Q3: Is this recipe spicy?
A3: The dish has a mild to medium spice level due to the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust it by adding less seasoning or omitting the chili flakes if you prefer.
