Picture the aroma of sizzling shrimp and salmon wafting through your kitchen, filling the air with buttery goodness and a hint of spice. I remember the first time I made Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce; the rich flavors whisked me away to a cozy dinner where every bite brought joy. This dish means a lot to me, as it’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight meal. You can easily bring the taste of the South to your table with this recipe. What makes it special is the creamy garlic sauce that hugs the succulent seafood perfectly, creating a delightful experience you won’t soon forget.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce because it combines rich, warm flavors in one dish. The Cajun seasoning adds a little heat, while the creamy sauce creates a smooth balance. It’s quick to prepare, making it suitable for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends. Plus, the vibrant colors of the shrimp and salmon make for a beautiful presentation. This recipe is a favorite in our house, and it’s sure to be a hit with you and your loved ones too!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Season the shrimp and salmon with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and let thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked shrimp and salmon back to the skillet, coating them in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce
Serve this dish over a bed of rice or alongside some crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic cream sauce. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Make sure to present it nicely, perhaps drizzling a little extra sauce on top and adding a sprig of parsley for color.
How to Store Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the seafood.
Tips to Make Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to match your preferred spice level.
- Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it brightens the dish and adds a nice touch.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color. Zucchini noodles can be a great low-carb substitute for pasta or rice if you want a lighter option.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and salmon. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the cream sauce for an extra kick.
3. Is there a dairy-free version of the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese.
Cajun Shrimp and Salmon with Garlic Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Seafood Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb salmon fillets
Seasoning and Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust for desired spice level
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with coconut cream for a dairy-free version
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Optional for a dairy-free version
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds color and freshness
Method
Preparation
- Season the shrimp and salmon with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cooking
- Add salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and let thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked shrimp and salmon back to the skillet, coating them in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.