Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

Name: Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: September 10, 2025

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Introduction to Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

Welcome, fellow food lovers! If you’re searching for a delightful dish to impress your loved ones or simply crave some comfort on a busy day, look no further than Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream. This recipe brims with flavor and is perfectly simple to whip up, making it an excellent choice for your family’s dinner table. With tender shrimp and flaky salmon basking in a rich garlic cream sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Trust me, it’ll take just 30 minutes to bring a taste of Cajun delight to your home!

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

This Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream is a true gem for busy cooks. Within just 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. The bold flavors of Cajun seasoning combined with the creamy sauce create an explosion of taste that your family will rave about. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please picky eaters, making dinner both quick and enjoyable!

Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to crafting this luscious Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp: Look for fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined shrimp. They cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
Salmon: Choose fillets with vibrant color and minimal white lines. They add richness and pair perfectly with the cream sauce.
Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic. It’s packed with flavor and adds that signature Cajun kick!
Garlic: Freshly minced is best; it brings warmth and depth to the sauce. I always say, the more garlic, the better!
Heavy Cream: This is the magic ingredient that will make your sauce creamy and luxurious. Pot for full-fat for the best texture.
Olive Oil: A great choice for sautéing, it adds a smooth flavor and helps cook the seafood to perfection.
Butter: A dollop of butter adds richness to the sauce, elevating the flavor even more.
Lemon Juice: Adds a zesty brightness to cut through the richness, balancing the dish beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the seafood.
Fresh Parsley: A garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

These ingredients come together to create a delicious harmony of flavors, delighting every bite! You can find the exact measurements at the bottom of this article, which are also available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delicious process of making Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream. I’ll walk you through each step. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Preparing the Seafood

Start by seasoning your shrimp and salmon. In a mixing bowl, sprinkle the peeled shrimp and salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Toss everything gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated with those vibrant spices. This simple step adds big flavor and will excite your taste buds!

Cooking the Shrimp

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time for the shrimp! Carefully place them into the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Watch for that delightful pink color; when they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. This visual cue is a surefire way to ensure you don’t overcook them—time flies when you’re having fun cooking!

Cooking the Salmon

Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. Next, place the salmon fillets in the same skillet, skin-side down. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side.

You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily flake the flesh with a fork. Don’t forget to keep the heat at medium; this lets the salmon cook evenly and stay juicy!

Making the Garlic Cream Sauce

Once the seafood is cooked and resting, it’s sauce time! Reduce the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of butter to the leftover juices in the skillet. As it melts, toss in the minced garlic.

Let the garlic sauté for about 1 minute, allowing its aroma to fill your kitchen. Then pour in the heavy cream and a splash of lemon juice, stirring gently.

Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. The creaminess mixed with the caramelized garlic will have you daydreaming about this dish!

Combining All Ingredients

Finally, return the shrimp and salmon back to the skillet with your luscious garlic cream sauce. Gently mix everything together; you want the seafood to be lovingly enveloped in that creamy goodness.

Let it cook together for another 2 minutes just to warm through. At this point, all those flavors will meld into a delicious harmony. Oh, the taste is worth the wait!

Tips for Success

Don’t rush the seasoning—let flavors soak into the seafood for at least 15 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure shrimp and salmon are cooked perfectly; shrimp should reach 120°F, and salmon 145°F.
For extra creaminess, whisk the heavy cream before pouring it in the skillet.
Feel free to customize the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning based on your preference.
Utilize leftover sauce for pasta or drizzling over veggies for added flavor!

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any heavy pan will do.
Mixing Bowl: Perfect for seasoning the seafood—any bowl will suffice.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps flip the shrimp and salmon with ease.
Meat Thermometer: Optional, but great for checking doneness!

Variations on Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

Spicy Kick: If you like some heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the garlic cream sauce.
Veggie Delight: Toss in vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus during cooking for a colorful and nutritious boost.
Coconut Cream Version: For a tropical twist, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic layer of flavor.
Grain-Free Option: Serve on a bed of sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

Pair with fluffy white rice to soak up that delicious garlic cream sauce.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots for a satisfying crunch.
Complement with a chilled glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio.
Garnish with fresh parsley for an elegant presentation.

FAQs about Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking. This easy recipe caters well to frozen shrimp, making meal prep a breeze!

How can I make Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream spicier?

If you love heat, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or a few dashes of hot sauce during the cooking process. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic cream sauce in advance, but I recommend cooking the shrimp and salmon just before serving. This way, they stay fresh and don’t lose their lovely texture!

What’s a good side dish to pair with this meal?

This Cajun Shrimp & Salmon pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or buttery garlic bread. For a fresh touch, a green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette works wonders!

Is this Cajun Shrimp & Salmon recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you’re in luck! All the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy every bite without worry!

Final Thoughts on Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream

This Cajun Shrimp & Salmon with Garlic Cream is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that brings joy and flavor to your dinner table. Imagine the smiles as your family savors each creamy bite, filled with zesty Cajun spice. This dish transforms an ordinary evening into something truly special. Whether you’re a busy mom or a professional, this recipe proves that you can create something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this feast, and enjoy a taste of happiness in every forkful!