Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's quick to prepare? Then look no further! This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe is your answer. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish bursting with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning, tender salmon, and succulent shrimp. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste of Louisiana in your own home!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
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For the Cajun Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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For the Dish:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin on or off
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a small bowl, combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients. Mix well and set aside.
Cooking the Seafood and Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Season the salmon and shrimp generously with the Cajun seasoning.
- Add the seasoned salmon and shrimp to the skillet. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Shrimp will cook much faster – about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remember that seafood continues to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.
Serving:
- Once cooked, remove the salmon and shrimp from the skillet and place them on a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level. For a milder dish, use less cayenne or omit it altogether.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Other Proteins: This recipe works well with other proteins like cod or catfish.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over rice, quinoa, couscous, or with a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low (depending on side dishes)
This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe is a fantastic choice for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals. It’s a delicious dish showcasing the best of homemade cooking, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy!