Name: Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 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; 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; Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice); Black beans; Corn kernels; Chopped red onion; Diced tomatoes; Lime wedges; Tortillas (corn or flour); Shredded lettuce

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Cajun Salmon Avocado Lime recipe combines bold, spicy flavors with creamy avocado lime crema for a fresh and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or tortillas. Let’s dive into making this vibrant dish!

Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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
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
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

Step 1: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to prepare them for seasoning.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until a paste forms. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
Step 3: Optional but recommended: marinate the salmon in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Let it shimmer before adding the salmon.
Step 5: Place salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if using skin. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the fillets release easily.
Step 6: Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 7: Alternative cooking methods:
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake salmon on a parchment-lined sheet for 12-15 minutes.
- Grilling: Grill on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, oiling grates to prevent sticking.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes in the air fryer basket.
Step 8: Remove salmon from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 9: Prepare the avocado lime crema by scooping avocado flesh into a blender or food processor. Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper if using.
Step 10: Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water one tablespoon at a time to reach your preferred consistency.
Step 11: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes if time allows.
Step 12: While the salmon rests, prepare sides like cooked rice, black beans, corn, tortillas, and fresh vegetables.
Step 13: Flake the cooked salmon gently with a fork.
Step 14: Assemble your dish:
- Bowls: Layer rice, black beans, and corn. Top with flaked salmon, red onion, diced tomatoes, and avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
- Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, salmon, red onion, tomatoes, and crema. Garnish with lime and cilantro.
- Plates: Serve salmon alongside rice and beans, with a side of avocado lime crema. Garnish as desired.
Step 15: Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a healthier crema, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt without sacrificing creaminess.
Add a pinch of cayenne to the avocado lime crema for extra heat.
If you don’t have fresh lime, use bottled lime juice but fresh is best.
Cast iron skillet is ideal for a crispy salmon skin, but non-stick pans work well too.
Try serving the salmon with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Storage

Store leftover salmon and avocado lime crema in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The crema may thicken—stir in a little water or lime juice to loosen before serving. Reheat salmon gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.

How to Serve

The image shows two thick rectangular pieces of grilled salmon placed side by side on a wooden board. Each piece has a crispy dark brown seared outer layer with hints of deep orange inside, showing texture from the grill marks. A smooth, creamy green sauce is drizzled over each salmon piece in three wide stripes, topped with finely chopped green herbs. On the right side of the board, there are two lime halves with visible juicy segments, and in the background, an avocado cut in half with its large brown seed visible. The overall setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and better texture.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?

The Cajun seasoning adds a warm, moderate heat balanced by the creamy avocado lime crema. Adjust the cayenne in the crema or the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.