Cajun Shrimp & Salmon Garlic

Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream Spicy Delight is a rich and flavorful seafood dish that brings together the smoky heat of Cajun seasoning with the smoothness of a garlic cream sauce. This recipe balances bold spices with creamy textures, making it an impressive yet approachable meal perfect for both family dinners and special occasions.

I first served this during a casual get-together and it quickly became a favorite. The creamy sauce makes the Cajun spices feel comforting rather than overwhelming, and everyone asked for seconds.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: two pieces about six ounces each rich in omega-3 fatty acids and buttery texture for balanced flavor
• Large shrimp: one pound peeled and deveined firm texture pairs beautifully with salmon
• Cajun seasoning: two tablespoons a blend of paprika cayenne pepper and garlic powder providing bold heat and depth choose a well-mixed quality blend for the best flavor
• Garlic: four cloves minced for aromatic warmth and to enhance the cream sauce
• Heavy cream: one cup adds lusciousness and smoothness that brings the dish together choose fresh heavy cream for optimal richness
• Olive oil: two tablespoons used to sear seafood lending subtle fruitiness and a golden crust
• Fresh parsley: two tablespoons chopped brightens the dish visually and adds fresh herbal notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Seafood:

Pat the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels to help achieve a nice sear. Generously season both sides of the salmon with half of the Cajun seasoning. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while prepping other ingredients.

Sauté the Garlic:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about one minute until warm. Add minced garlic and sauté quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.

Cook the Salmon:

Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for approximately five minutes per side or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and flakes easily. Remove the fillets and loosely cover with foil to keep warm.

Cook the Shrimp:

In the same skillet add the shrimp along with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Sauté for three to four minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.

Make the Cream Sauce:

Pour heavy cream into the skillet. Stir constantly over medium heat scraping the pan to incorporate any browned bits left by the seafood. Let the sauce gently simmer for three to five minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combine Everything:

Return the cooked shrimp and salmon to the skillet with the cream sauce. Spoon the sauce over the seafood to coat evenly. Warm through on low heat for about one minute before serving.

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Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They keep well for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat to preserve the delicate texture of the seafood. Avoid microwaving aggressively as it can toughen the fish and shrimp.

Ingredient substitutions

If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for creaminess and subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with Cajun spices. You can swap salmon for other firm white fish like snapper or tilapia if preferred. For less spicy heat try reducing the amount of Cajun seasoning and add smoked paprika for flavor depth without the burn.

Serving suggestions

Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy white rice or buttered pasta which soaks up the garlic cream sauce deliciously. A fresh green salad dressed in vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus add freshness and balance. Garlic bread is also a favorite accompaniment to soak up every bit of the sauce.

Cultural context

Cajun cuisine comes from French settlers in Louisiana adapting local ingredients into bold flavorful dishes often featuring spices like cayenne and paprika. Seafood plays a key role in coastal Cajun cooking. This dish is a modern take combining classic Cajun heat with the luxurious creaminess that elevates traditional flavors.

Recipe FAQs

→ What defines Cajun seasoning in this dish?

Cajun seasoning blends spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and black pepper, providing a bold, smoky heat that complements seafood beautifully.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream used here?

Yes, for a lighter or dairy-free option, Greek yogurt, cashew cream, or coconut milk work well to maintain a creamy texture with subtle variations in flavor.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp and salmon?

Cook shrimp until opaque and salmon until flaky but still moist, typically about 3-5 minutes per side on medium-high heat, to preserve tenderness.

→ What are good side dishes to serve alongside this seafood?

Steamed rice, garlic bread, roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers, and fresh salads dressed lightly complement the rich flavors in this dish.

→ Is it okay to prepare parts of this dish in advance?

Marinating the seafood up to 30 minutes before cooking helps intensify flavor, but it's best to cook and combine ingredients fresh for ideal texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days and reheat gently on low heat to preserve the cream sauce and seafood texture.