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Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 53 reviews

Flaky, flavorful Cajun salmon topped with a creamy, zesty avocado lime crema. This dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors, making it ideal for bowls, tacos, or served alongside your favorite sides. Quick, healthy, and versatile, this Cajun salmon avocado lime recipe is a delicious way to enjoy seafood with a vibrant twist.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cajun Salmon:

  • 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Avocado Lime Crema:

  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
  • 2–3 tablespoons water, to thin to desired consistency

For Serving (Optional):

  • Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
  • Black beans
  • Corn kernels
  • Chopped red onion
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Lime wedges
  • Tortillas (corn or flour)
  • Shredded lettuce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere and ensure a nice sear. Keep the skin on or remove it according to your preference.
  2. Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to form a paste. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets to coat thoroughly.
  3. Marinate (Optional): Refrigerate the seasoned salmon for at least 15 minutes, up to 30 minutes, to allow flavors to meld for best taste. This step can be skipped if short on time.
  4. Heat the Pan: Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
  5. Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down if skin is on. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown and the salmon releases easily from the pan.
  6. Flip and Cook: Turn the salmon fillets over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
  7. Rest the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute for tender, flavorful fish.
  8. Make the Avocado Lime Crema: In a food processor or blender, combine avocado flesh, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and optional cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water one tablespoon at a time to achieve a pourable consistency.
  9. Taste and Adjust: Sample the crema and modify seasonings if needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or cayenne pepper to suit your preference. Chill for 30 minutes if time allows to enhance flavors.
  10. Assemble and Serve: Flake the cooked salmon with a fork. For bowls, start with a base of rice, black beans, and corn, then top with salmon, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and drizzle with avocado lime crema. For tacos, fill warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, salmon, onions, tomatoes, and crema. Plate options include serving salmon alongside sides with crema on the side. Garnish all with lime wedges and extra cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 15 minutes before cooking, though this is optional if short on time.
  • If you don’t have a skillet, alternative cooking methods include baking, grilling, or air frying the salmon.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the avocado lime crema for a healthier option.
  • The recipe is versatile and can be served with rice, beans, tortillas, or as a salad topping.
  • Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper in the crema.
  • For a low-carb meal, substitute rice with cauliflower rice or serve with roasted vegetables.
  • Resting the salmon after cooking is important to keep it juicy and flavorful.
  • Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, but best enjoyed fresh.

Keywords: Cajun salmon, avocado lime crema, seafood recipe, easy dinner, healthy salmon, spicy salmon, creamy avocado sauce, salmon tacos, quick salmon recipe

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/cajun-salmon-with-avocado-lime-crema-recipe/