Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious? Meet the "Easy One Pan Cajun Salmon" – a culinary masterpiece that brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine right to your kitchen in just 25 minutes! Perfectly seasoned salmon fillets, colorful bell peppers, and zesty lemon come together in a single pan for a meal that’s not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you're a busy professional or a home chef looking to impress, this recipe will make you feel like a culinary rockstar. Dive in to discover how to create this mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence.
- Generously coat both sides of the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, making sure to press the seasoning gently into the fish to create an even layer.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot.
- Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets into the hot pan, skin-side down if the skin is still attached. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crisp.
- Flip the salmon fillets and add sliced bell peppers and onions around the fish in the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Arrange lemon slices around the salmon and vegetables in the pan, squeezing some fresh lemon juice over the fish for added brightness.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Transfer the salmon and vegetables to serving plates, garnishing with additional fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the spicy Cajun flavors and perfectly cooked salmon.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, slice your bell peppers and onions ahead of time. You can even season the salmon fillets in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours to enhance the flavor.
- Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best taste and texture. Look for fillets that are bright in color and have a firm texture.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Allow the oil to get hot before adding the salmon. This helps create a beautifully crisp skin and prevents sticking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F. This guarantees a moist and flaky result.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the bell peppers and onions for your favorite vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. Just be mindful of their cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few extra lemon wedges can elevate the dish and add a pop of color to your presentation.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your Cajun salmon with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complete the meal and soak up all those delicious flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
