Ingredients

2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 ripe avocados

1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)

1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)

2-3 tablespoons water, to thin to desired consistency

Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

Black beans

Corn kernels

Chopped red onion

Diced tomatoes

Lime wedges

Tortillas (corn or flour)

Shredded lettuce

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste. Rub the Cajun mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

Step 3: (Optional) Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes for best flavor.

Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Heat until shimmering.

Step 5: Place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down if skin is on. Sear for 4-5 minutes until skin is crispy and salmon releases easily.

Step 6: Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and it flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Alternative cooking methods:

Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 12-15 minutes.
Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill salmon 4-5 minutes per side, oiling grates beforehand.
Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Cook salmon in air fryer basket 8-10 minutes.

Step 8: Remove salmon from heat and let rest a few minutes before serving.

Step 9: For the avocado lime crema, halve the avocados, remove pits, and scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.

Step 10: Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper if using.

Step 11: Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water one tablespoon at a time to thin the crema to your desired consistency.

Step 12: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. (Optional) Chill the crema in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Step 13: Prepare your base ingredients like rice, black beans, and corn while salmon is cooking or resting. Warm tortillas if making tacos or bowls.

Step 14: Gently flake the cooked salmon with a fork.

Step 15: Assemble your dish:

Bowls: Layer rice, black beans, and corn. Top with flaked salmon, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Tacos: Fill warmed tortillas with shredded lettuce, flaked salmon, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Plates: Serve salmon alongside rice, black beans, and a side of avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.

Step 16: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter avocado lime crema.

Adjust the cayenne pepper in the crema to control the heat level to your preference.

If you prefer milder salmon, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning by half.

Try adding diced mango or pineapple to bowls or tacos for a sweet contrast.

Storage

Store cooked salmon and avocado lime crema separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat salmon gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying out. The crema is best served cold or at room temperature and may thicken when chilled; stir in a small amount of water to loosen if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning for this dish?

The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate heat with smoky and savory notes. You can adjust the level by using less seasoning or omitting the cayenne pepper in the avocado crema if you prefer a milder flavor.