Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a delightful blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, perfectly balanced with a crispy finish. This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.
The Cajun seasoning adds a kick, while the honey butter mixture provides a rich, caramelized glaze that complements the tender, flaky salmon beautifully.
This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a delicious, flavorful dish that brings together the perfect combination of spice and sweetness. The crispy sear on the salmon, paired with the rich, buttery glaze, makes for a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
Here’s how to make this Spicy and Sweet Cajun Honey Butter Salmon with a Crispy Finish:
Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets, skin on or off, your preference
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy finish.
- Rub each fillet generously with Cajun seasoning, ensuring all sides are well coated for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Salmon:
- In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if you’re leaving the skin on.
- Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful texture to the fish.
- Prepare the Honey Butter Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, honey, minced garlic, and lemon juice until well combined. This mixture will form a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the spicy Cajun seasoning.
- Bake the Salmon:
- Pour the honey butter mixture over the seared salmon fillets in the skillet, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and spoon some of the melted honey butter from the skillet over the salmon fillets for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the Cajun Honey Butter Salmon hot, with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.