Can I use frozen salmon and shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen salmon and shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly in the fridge before cooking to ensure they cook evenly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help them sear better in the pan.

Can I make the creamy spinach sauce ahead of time?

While it's best to make the creamy spinach sauce fresh for the best texture, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just make sure to reheat it gently over low heat before adding the seafood. You might need to add a splash of cream or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

If you want to ramp up the spice level, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to both the seafood and the sauce. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra kick!

Cajun Salmon and Shrimp: A Flavorful, Creamy Seafood Delight

Description

This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe features tender, flaky salmon and juicy shrimp seasoned with bold Cajun spices, then finished in a creamy spinach cheese sauce. A perfect blend of heat, richness, and comfort, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 Tbsp red onion, minced
1 Tbsp flour
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Pat salmon fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both with Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic and red onion. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over garlic and onion, and stir. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
Return salmon and shrimp to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the seafood and simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Use fresh seafood for the best texture and flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
If you like your sauce thicker, you can let it simmer for a longer time to reduce.
Pair with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Pan-seared, stovetop
Cuisine: American, Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 687 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 676mg
Fat: 52g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 24g
Trans Fat: 0.2g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 44g
Cholesterol: 199mg