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Baked Cajun Salmon

Baked Cajun Salmon
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Baked Cajun Salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner featuring fresh salmon fillets seasoned with a smoky, spicy Cajun rub. Baked to juicy perfection with a crispy skin, this dish is perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests, offering a balance of bold taste, nutrition, and simplicity with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh, skin-on salmon fillets (6 oz each)

Seasoning & Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispier exterior.
  2. Season Generously: Brush the salmon lightly with olive oil, then rub both sides with the Cajun seasoning blend, ensuring every part is evenly coated. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned salmon skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains tender and juicy inside. Avoid overcooking to maintain moistness.
  5. Add a Fresh Finish: Once out of the oven, drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over the salmon to brighten and lift the flavors.

Notes

  • Choose fresh salmon with firm, bright fillets for best flavor and texture.
  • Balance the Cajun seasoning to avoid overpowering the natural salmon taste.
  • Use a meat thermometer to achieve an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.
  • Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
  • Use skin-on fillets and bake skin-side down for a crispy texture and moist fish.

Nutrition

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Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/baked-cajun-salmon/