Name: Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American 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

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.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste and rub it evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

Step 3: For best flavor, marinate the salmon in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes (optional).

Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat until it shimmers.

Step 5: Place the salmon fillets carefully in the pan, skin-side down if skin-on. Sear for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon releases easily.

Step 6: Flip the salmon and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until cooked through and flaky. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Alternatively, you can cook the salmon by baking at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, grilling for 4–5 minutes per side over medium-high heat, or air frying at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Step 8: Remove salmon from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.

Step 9: To prepare the avocado lime crema, halve the avocados, remove pits, and scoop flesh into a food processor or blender.

Step 10: Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the processor.

Step 11: Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water one tablespoon at a time if the crema is too thick.

Step 12: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes if desired.

Step 13: While the salmon cooks or rests, prepare your base ingredients such as rice, black beans, corn, or warm tortillas.

Step 14: Gently flake the cooked salmon with a fork.

Step 15: Assemble your dish:

Bowls: Layer rice, black beans, and corn; top with flaked salmon, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, flaked salmon, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Plates: Serve salmon alongside rice and black beans with a side of avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.

Step 16: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika in your Cajun seasoning mix.

Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt in the crema for a tangier, healthier option.

Add diced jalapeños to the crema for additional heat.

If you prefer mild spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the crema and Cajun seasoning.

Use skin-on salmon for a crispy texture; skinless works well too if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I make the avocado lime crema ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crema up to a day in advance. Keep it chilled in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

What can I serve with Cajun salmon besides rice and beans?

Great options include roasted vegetables, quinoa, a fresh green salad, or warm tortillas for tacos. The avocado lime crema pairs well with many sides.