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Ingredients for Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
Gather the following ingredients to prepare this flavorful salmon dish:
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- For the Cajun Honey Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions for Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning adhere better. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Make the Cajun Honey Butter Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, Cajun seasoning, and minced garlic until well combined.
4. Bake the Salmon:
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour half of the Cajun honey butter sauce over the salmon, reserving the other half for later. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Add the Remaining Sauce:
- Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and drizzle the remaining Cajun honey butter sauce over the fillets. Let it sit for a minute to absorb the flavors.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Honey Butter Salmon with your choice of sides.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fish spatula or tongs
Tips for Making the Best Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste. For a milder flavor, use less seasoning or choose a mild blend.
- Sear for Extra Flavor: For added depth, consider searing the salmon fillets in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to the oven. This will create a delicious crust.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Use Wild-Caught Salmon: If available, opt for wild-caught salmon for its superior flavor and sustainability.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.
- Freezing: Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing Suggestions
Cajun Honey Butter Salmon pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make for a nutritious side dish.
- Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch.
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