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Crispy Cajun Salmon Recipe with Easy Zesty Lemon Butter Sauce

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A quick and flavorful salmon recipe featuring a crispy Cajun-spiced crust and a bright, zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170g) each, fresh or thawed
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons (about 57g) unsalted butter
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons), freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (about 2 minutes).
  2. Season both sides of the salmon liberally with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper, pressing gently to adhere (about 3 minutes).
  3. Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers but does not smoke (about 2 minutes).
  4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot oil. Press down with a spatula for 10 seconds to prevent curling. Cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
  5. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily but remains moist inside.
  6. While the salmon cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice.
  7. Transfer salmon fillets to plates, spoon the zesty lemon butter sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry thoroughly to ensure crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain heat and crispiness. Press the fish down during searing to prevent curling. Watch the butter carefully when making the sauce to avoid burning; remove from heat once it smells nutty and golden. If fish sticks, wait a few more seconds before flipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun salmon, crispy salmon, lemon butter sauce, quick salmon recipe, easy dinner, seafood, healthy dinner

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/crispy-cajun-salmon-recipe-with-easy-zesty-lemon-butter-sauce/