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This salmon dish is seasoned with vibrant Cajun spices then baked to juicy perfection and served over flavorful Cajun rice. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens every bite and makes this meal truly satisfying.
I first made this during a chilly evening when I craved something warm and bold. Now it’s a regular in my meal rotation, especially when I want a comforting seafood dinner with a little kick.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: adds richness and helps sauté vegetables evenly choose extra virgin for best flavor
- Jalapeno peppers: provide gentle heat adjust quantity to your spice preference
- Yellow onion: offers a sweet base note pick firm and glossy bulbs
- Celery stalks: bring a subtle freshness and crunch look for bright green and crisp stems
- Garlic cloves: add aromatic depth use fresh minced for maximum punch
- Long grain rice: cooks fluffy and light rinse before cooking to remove excess starch
- Chicken stock: enhances rice with savory notes low sodium preferred
- Tomato sauce: lends acidity and body opt for pure and unsweetened
- Cajun seasonings: blend paprika cayenne and herbs homemade or quality store-bought works well
- Garlic powder: boosts overall garlic flavor without moisture
- Cayenne powder: intensifies heat add carefully if sensitive to spice
- Salt and pepper: balance flavors use kosher salt for better control
- Hot sauce: is optional but elevates the heat for enthusiasts
- Salmon fillets: should be fresh or properly thawed firm texture indicates quality
- Lemon: brightens and cuts through richness fresh squeezed just before serving
- Chopped parsley: adds fresh color and herbal notes as garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped jalapeno onion celery and minced garlic. Cook gently until vegetables soften and become fragrant about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the rice.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add rinsed long grain rice to the aromatics and stir to coat each grain in oil and spices. Pour in chicken stock tomato sauce Cajun seasoning garlic powder cayenne powder salt and pepper. Stir well. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Season the Salmon:
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning. Generously coat each fillet with Cajun seasoning garlic powder cayenne powder salt and pepper on all sides.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place seasoned salmon on a lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 4 to 6 minutes per inch of thickness. The salmon should be opaque on the outside and slightly pink in the center for best texture and moisture.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon a generous portion of the cooked Cajun rice onto each plate. Lay a baked salmon fillet over the rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice. Add hot sauce if desired for extra heat.
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You Must Know
- Great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein
- High in bold spices that can be adjusted to taste
- Freezes well if stored properly
My favorite part is the Cajun seasoning blend which brings warmth and complexity. This dish reminds me of family dinners where spice and comfort meet in every bite.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 to 3 days for best quality. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon and rice.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist replace salmon with firm tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Swap jalapeno for bell peppers for milder heat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness. A chilled glass of white wine complements the spice and richness beautifully.
Cultural Context
Cajun cuisine hails from Louisiana known for its bold flavors and use of spices. This dish reflects the region’s love of seafood and vibrant seasoning traditions.
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Pro Tips
- Toast your Cajun spices lightly before using to enhance their aroma and depth
- Do not skip rinsing the rice to keep grains fluffy and separate
- Check salmon doneness early to avoid overcooking it should flake easily but still be moist
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure salmon stays moist when baking?
Use a moderate baking temperature around 425°F and avoid overcooking. Baking for 4-6 minutes per inch of thickness keeps the salmon tender and slightly pink inside.
- → What makes Cajun rice distinctively flavorful?
Cajun rice uses a blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic, and onion powder combined with sautéed vegetables such as celery, onion, and jalapeno to create its signature bold taste.
- → Can I prepare the rice and salmon simultaneously?
Yes, the rice simmers on the stove while the salmon bakes in the oven, so both finish cooking around the same time for an easy, coordinated meal.
- → What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
Fresh greens or a simple salad complement the spicy salmon and rice well, adding a crisp contrast to the rich flavors.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, ensuring prompt refrigeration to maintain freshness.