Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, flavorful, and oven-baked for easy cleanup. It delivers bold Cajun spice without overpowering the natural richness of the salmon and works well with many side dishes.
Baked Cajun Salmon: Bold, Spicy Flavor with Effortless Oven Cooking
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A bold and flavorful baked salmon coated in Cajun spices, roasted until tender and flaky with a lightly crisp exterior—perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the top.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven and rest for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice level.
- Do not overbake to keep salmon moist.
- Pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Salmon fillets are the centerpiece of the dish. They bake beautifully and stay tender while absorbing the Cajun seasoning.
Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere and keeps the salmon moist during baking.
Cajun seasoning provides smoky heat and depth, giving the salmon its signature bold flavor.
Paprika enhances color and adds mild smokiness.
Garlic powder brings savory warmth that complements the spice blend.
Onion powder adds subtle sweetness and balance.
Salt enhances all the flavors and brings the seasoning together.
Black pepper adds gentle heat and contrast.
Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the salmon.
Fresh parsley adds freshness and a clean finish.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and lining a baking tray with parchment paper or foil. Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them skin-side down on the prepared tray. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the salmon, pressing gently so it adheres. Bake until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through. Remove from the oven and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and baking time is 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. Total time is roughly 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven at low temperature or enjoy cold in salads or wraps. Avoid overheating to maintain moisture.
Variations and Customizations
Mild Cajun salmon
Reduce Cajun seasoning and increase paprika for less heat.
Honey Cajun salmon
Drizzle lightly with honey before baking for sweet heat.
Garlic butter version
Add small pieces of butter over the salmon before baking.
Cajun salmon bowls
Serve over rice with vegetables and a yogurt-based sauce.
Air fryer option
Cook in the air fryer for a slightly crisp exterior.
FAQs
Is Cajun salmon very spicy?
It has moderate heat, which can be adjusted easily.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Should I remove the skin?
Skin can be left on; it helps keep the fish moist.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best fresh but reheats gently.
Does this recipe work with other fish?
Yes, it works well with cod or tilapia.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, adjust salt depending on the blend.
How do I avoid dry salmon?
Do not overbake and use moderate oven heat.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is high in protein and baked, not fried.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger tray and avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
Baked Cajun Salmon is a bold, satisfying dish that combines ease with big flavor. With its smoky spice, tender texture, and simple preparation, it is a dependable recipe that brings excitement to everyday meals while remaining healthy and versatile.
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