Cajun Salmon with Garlic Herb Potatoes
Description
This dish combines spicy Cajun-seasoned salmon with crispy, golden garlic herb potatoes. It’s a perfect balance of heat, freshness, and comfort—great for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cajun Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (skin-on or off)
2 tbsp olive oil
1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt & black pepper (to taste)
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Garlic Herb Potatoes:
500g baby potatoes (halved)
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking tray in a single layer.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat salmon dry with paper towels.
Rub with olive oil and coat evenly with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Option 1: Pan-Seared (Best Flavor)
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add a little oil and place salmon skin-side down.
Cook for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until flaky.
Option 2: Oven-Baked
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Remove potatoes from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Plate salmon alongside potatoes.
Garnish with extra lemon wedges.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t overcrowd the potatoes—this keeps them crispy.
Use fresh garlic for better aroma and flavor.
Let salmon rest for 2 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Adjust Cajun seasoning depending on your spice tolerance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes—just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Q: What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?
Mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and salt.
Q: Can I make it air fryer-friendly?
Yes!
Potatoes: 180°C for 15–20 mins
Salmon: 180°C for 8–10 mins
Serving Suggestions
Steamed vegetables
Fresh green salad
Garlic yogurt sauce or lemon butter drizzle
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 520–580 kcal
Protein: 35–40g
Carbohydrates: 30–35g
Fat: 28–32g