Description: A delectable combination of blackened Cajun salmon and succulent shrimp, enveloped in a rich and creamy garlic herb sauce. This recipe promises a burst of flavors, blending the zest of Cajun spices with the comforting richness of a cream-based sauce. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish that delivers restaurant-quality results, perfect for a special dinner or an impressive weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
For the Salmon & Shrimp:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off, depending on preference
- 10 large shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade blend)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
For the Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or seafood broth (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (or a combination)
- Cracked black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon and Shrimp
Begin by patting the salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step, as removing excess moisture will allow the Cajun seasoning to adhere better and promote proper searing. In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning with olive oil. This mixture will create a flavorful paste that coats the seafood evenly. Generously rub the Cajun seasoning mixture all over the salmon fillets and shrimp, ensuring they are fully coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. The pan needs to be sufficiently hot to achieve a good sear, which will enhance the flavor and texture of the salmon. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) into the skillet. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side for medium or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce
In the same skillet (without wiping it clean – the fond left from searing the salmon and shrimp will add depth of flavor to the sauce), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and broth. Whisk in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley or chives. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, if desired.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the creamy garlic herb sauce over the seared salmon and shrimp. Garnish with extra fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a dash of red pepper flakes (if desired). Serve immediately.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Cajun Salmon & Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, combining the zesty spice of Cajun seasoning with the richness of a creamy garlic herb sauce. Second, it’s relatively quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want something impressive. Third, it’s a healthy and balanced meal, providing lean protein from the salmon and shrimp, healthy fats from the olive oil and cream, and plenty of flavor from the herbs and spices. Fourth, it’s versatile – you can easily adjust the level of spice to your liking and substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. Finally, it’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home, saving you money and allowing you to control the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Tips:
- For a bolder flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce while it’s simmering.
- If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon and shrimp, as they can become dry and rubbery.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce it.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your liking, depending on your spice preference.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Estimated per serving, based on the ingredients listed)
- Calories: Approximately 710 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 50g
- Sodium: Varies depending on the Cajun seasoning and broth used
Conclusion
The Cajun Salmon & Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce is a standout recipe that delivers a symphony of flavors and textures. The combination of the spicy Cajun seasoning, the tender seafood, and the rich, creamy sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve to guests, this recipe is sure to please. It’s also a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your liking, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use frozen salmon and shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon and shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While the salmon and shrimp are best served immediately, you can make the creamy garlic herb sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will not be as rich and creamy. You may also need to simmer it for a longer time to thicken it.
- Can I use different herbs in the sauce? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as dill, tarragon, or oregano.
- Can I grill the salmon and shrimp instead of searing them? Yes, you can grill the salmon and shrimp for a smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side and the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
