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Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 141 reviews

This Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining perfectly seared, spiced salmon with a cool, creamy avocado lime topping. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe balances healthy fats and lean protein with fresh, zesty flavors and a slight kick from Cajun seasoning. Versatile for bowls, tacos, or plated meals, it pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or fresh veggies.

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 stick and promote a good sear. Leave the skin on or remove it based on your preference.
  2. Season the Salmon: In a 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.
  3. Marinate (Optional): Refrigerate the seasoned salmon for 15-30 minutes to enhance flavor penetration. This step is optional but recommended for best taste.
  4. Heat the Pan: Warm a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat until shimmering.
  5. Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down if the skin is on. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to achieve a crispy, golden crust and easy release from the pan.
  6. Flip and Cook: Turn the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking.
  7. Alternative Cooking Methods: You can bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, grill on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
  8. Rest the Salmon: Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Make the Avocado Lime Crema: Scoop avocados into a food processor. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper if desired. Blend until smooth. Add water one tablespoon at a time to reach desired pourable consistency.
  10. Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or cayenne pepper as needed. Chill for 30 minutes if time allows to meld flavors.
  11. Assemble the Dish: Prepare your base such as rice, black beans, and corn. Flake the salmon gently with a fork.
  12. Serve: For bowls, layer rice, beans, corn, topped with salmon, red onion, tomatoes, and avocado crema. For tacos, fill warm tortillas with lettuce, salmon, onions, tomatoes, and crema. Plates can be served with salmon alongside sides and crema.
  13. Garnish and Enjoy: Add lime wedges and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant, balanced flavors.

Notes

  • Patting the salmon dry before seasoning helps achieve a better sear.
  • Marinating the salmon enhances flavor but is optional if short on time.
  • Cooking times may vary depending on thickness of salmon fillets.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter crema option.
  • The avocado crema can be thinned with water or lime juice to preference.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper amount based on desired spice level.
  • This recipe is versatile; try serving with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice for variations.

Keywords: Cajun salmon, avocado lime crema, seafood recipe, easy dinner, healthy salmon, Cajun seasoning, avocado sauce, quick salmon recipe

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