Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight

This Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy bold, spicy flavors. The combination of tender salmon, juicy shrimp, and sautéed bell peppers is a complete meal that’s easy to make yet full of flavor. Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying and healthy dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: With just 35 minutes of total time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Bold flavors: The Cajun seasoning provides a spicy, robust taste that pairs well with the rich salmon and shrimp.

Versatile: You can adjust the spice level, swap veggies, or add your own twist to this recipe.
One-pan meal: Less mess and fewer dishes to clean up with this simple one-skillet recipe.

Recipe Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each) – Rich and flavorful, salmon pairs well with Cajun spices.

12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Adds a juicy, sweet contrast to the salmon.
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning – Provides heat and a complex flavor; adjust according to your spice preference.
2 tbsp olive oil – For searing the salmon and shrimp.

1 lemon, sliced – For garnishing and adding a zesty freshness.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds a punch of flavor to the seafood.
1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips – Sweet and vibrant, adds color and texture.

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips – Balances the heat with its mild, sweet flavor.
1 cup cooked rice (optional) – A perfect base to serve with the seafood.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Rinse the salmon fillets and shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels. Season both the salmon and shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning, making sure to coat evenly for a flavorful kick. For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down, and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. The salmon should flake easily with a fork. Once done, remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp and Bell Peppers

In the same skillet, add the seasoned shrimp and sliced bell peppers. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. The bell peppers should soften slightly but still have a crunch for texture contrast.

Step 4: Combine and Garnish

Return the cooked salmon to the skillet and arrange the shrimp and bell peppers around it. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seafood to enhance the flavors and cut through the richness. Garnish with lemon slices for a bright, fresh presentation.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight over a bed of cooked rice for a hearty meal, or enjoy it as is for a lighter option. The rice will absorb the flavorful juices, making the dish even more satisfying.

Cooking Notes

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preference. For extra heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Shrimp Cooking Tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can turn rubbery. Cook just until they are pink and opaque.
Even Cooking for Salmon: Use fillets of similar thickness for even cooking. Thicker fillets may require an extra minute or two on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

Rice: Serve over white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
Vegetables: Pair with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or spinach for added nutrition.
Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the bold Cajun flavors.
Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices from the dish.

Tips

One-Pan Meal: For easier cleanup, use the same skillet for the entire recipe. The flavors from the salmon, shrimp, and peppers will meld beautifully.
Meal Prep: This dish can be cooked in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Grilling Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the salmon and shrimp instead. Brush with olive oil and Cajun seasoning, and grill the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side and the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon?

Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp and salmon completely before cooking. For a quick thaw, place them in cold water for about 30 minutes.

2. How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon or use a milder seasoning blend. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.

3. What other vegetables can I use?

You can add zucchini, asparagus, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes to this dish. Sauté them with the bell peppers for variety.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just make sure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain hidden dairy.

Conclusion

This Spicy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Delight is a flavorful, quick-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The bold Cajun seasoning brings out the best in the salmon and shrimp, while the sautéed bell peppers add a sweet, crunchy contrast. Serve it over rice or with fresh vegetables for a healthy, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy restaurant-quality seafood in the comfort of your home!