Name: Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Crema Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American Cajun
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

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Introduction

This Cajun Salmon Avocado Lime recipe combines bold, spicy flavors with creamy, fresh avocado lime crema for a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or tortillas.

Two thick pieces of grilled salmon are neatly sliced into six segments each and laid out on a wooden cutting board. The salmon has a deep reddish-brown grilled crust with a slightly charred texture. A smooth, pale green creamy sauce is drizzled evenly over the top of each salmon piece, glistening slightly and garnished with finely chopped fresh green herbs. On the side, there are two lime halves, showing their juicy, bright green interiors. An avocado half with its seed is blurred softly in the background. The image is set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
Step 3: For best flavor, marinate the salmon in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes (optional).
Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat until shimmering.
Step 5: Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon releases easily.
Step 6: Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 7: Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, grill for 4-5 minutes per side over medium-high heat, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Step 8: Remove salmon from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
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). Blend until smooth.
Step 11: If the crema is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
Step 12: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill for 30 minutes if desired.
Step 13: Prepare your base with rice, black beans, and corn while salmon cooks or rests.
Step 14: Flake the cooked salmon gently with a fork.
Step 15: Assemble your dish:
Bowls: Layer rice, black beans, and corn. Top with salmon, red onion, tomatoes, and avocado lime crema. Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro.
Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, salmon, red onion, tomatoes, and crema. Garnish with lime and cilantro.
Plates: Serve salmon with rice, beans, and a side of avocado crema, garnished with lime and cilantro.
Step 16: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, higher-protein crema.
For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the Cajun seasoning mix.
Letting the salmon marinate longer deepens the flavors but 15 minutes is sufficient for a quick meal.
Serve in bowls, tacos, or on plates depending on your preference.
Customize toppings with your favorite fresh veggies like avocado slices or jalapeños for added heat.

Storage

Store leftover 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 microwave until warmed through. Avocado crema is best served cold and may thicken after refrigeration — stir in a little water or lime juice to loosen before serving.

How to Serve

Two thick, golden-brown pieces of grilled salmon sit on a white rectangular plate with a slightly raised edge. Each salmon piece is covered with a creamy, pale green sauce that has small green herb pieces mixed in, flowing slightly down the sides. The salmon has a visible crispy texture with a reddish spice rub on the top. Around the salmon pieces are small green herb leaves sprinkled lightly. On the plate, there are two lime wedges that look juicy and fresh. The plate is set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works well. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and best texture.

Is this recipe spicy?

The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate level of spice, but you can adjust by adding or omitting cayenne pepper in the avocado crema or choosing a milder or hotter Cajun mix.