Cajun Honey Butter Salmon

Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, rich honey butter sauce, and the natural sweetness of salmon creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile. The salmon is seared to perfection, and the honey butter sauce adds a luscious, savory sweetness that will have you coming back for more. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is as simple as it is indulgent!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin on)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

• Salt, to taste

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

• Black sesame seeds (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Salmon:

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil and season generously with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt (if needed).

Cook the Salmon:

1. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side up, and sear for about 3 minutes until they form a nice crust.

2. Flip the salmon so the skin side is down and cook for another 2 minutes.

Make the Honey Butter Sauce:

1. While the salmon is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic to the saucepan. Stir until well combined and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Remove from heat and squeeze in the lemon juice.

Finish Cooking the Salmon:

1. Pour the honey butter sauce over the salmon fillets. Continue to cook the salmon, spooning the sauce over the fillets regularly, for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the salmon reaches your desired doneness.

Serve:

1. Once the salmon is cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, lemon wedges, and black sesame seeds.

2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Tips

• Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning if you prefer a milder or spicier flavor. You can make your own Cajun seasoning if preferred by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano.

• Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the honey butter sauce.

• For Extra Flavor: Spoon the sauce over the salmon regularly during cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.

Variations

• Cajun Heat: If you want more heat, add extra cayenne or chili flakes to the sauce or seasoning mix.

• Different Proteins: This recipe also works great with other fish like trout or tilapia, or even chicken if you’re looking for a change in protein.

• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook the salmon.

FAQs

Can I use skinless salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use skinless fillets, but the skin helps to hold moisture and adds extra flavor. If using skinless fillets, be sure to watch them closely while cooking to avoid overcooking.

Can I make the honey butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before using it on the salmon.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should be opaque and tender.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, if you like more heat, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter sauce.

Conclusion

Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a deliciously easy and flavorful dish that brings together the best of both sweet and savory. The Cajun seasoning gives the salmon a nice kick, while the honey butter sauce adds a smooth, rich finish. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress!

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