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Delicious Baked Cajun Salmon

Delicious Baked Cajun Salmon

Delicious Baked Cajun Salmon is a flavorful and quick recipe combining smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning with tender, flaky salmon. Ready in under 30 minutes, this healthy and nutrient-rich dish offers a perfect balance of bold spices, olive oil richness, and bright lemon juice, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want a satisfying, wholesome dinner.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets, skin on

Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, herbs blend)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon optional garlic powder or smoked paprika (to deepen smoky undertones)

Others

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s hot enough for perfectly baked salmon with a slightly crisp finish.
  2. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and prevents excess moisture that could cause the fish to steam instead of bake.
  3. Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, optional garlic powder or smoked paprika, and olive oil. Brush or rub this spice blend evenly over each salmon fillet, covering every inch for full flavor impact.
  4. Bake the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon on a lined baking sheet, skin side down. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside.
  5. Add Fresh Lemon Juice: Once the salmon is out of the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets. This brightens the dish and balances the richness beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh fillets for a more delicate, flaky texture.
  • Do not overcook; check around 12 minutes to avoid dry salmon.
  • Adjust cayenne and smoked paprika amounts to customize heat and smokiness.
  • Keep the skin on for crispier texture and moisture retention.
  • Use a wire rack while baking to allow even air circulation and prevent sogginess.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Cajun
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (about 6 oz)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: Cajun salmon, baked salmon, healthy salmon recipe, quick salmon dinner, spicy salmon