Save It A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring spicy Cajun-rubbed salmon fillets paired with fresh, tangy pomegranate salsa. Perfect for a healthy and impressive weeknight dinner.
The first time I made this Cajun spiced salmon, my family devoured every bite and requested it again the very next week. The combination of spicy salmon and refreshing salsa instantly won everyone over.
Ingredients
- Salmon: 4 salmon fillets (about 150 g each), skin-on or skinless
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp, divided use
- Cajun seasoning: 1 tbsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, plus 1/4 tsp for salsa
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Pomegranate seeds: 1 cup (arils)
- Cucumber: 1/2 cup diced
- Red onion: 1/4 cup finely chopped
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped
- Jalapeño: 1 seeded and finely diced
- Lime: Zest and juice of 1
- Lime wedges: For serving
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Season:
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each piece with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Arrange fillets on the prepared tray, skin-side down if using skin-on salmon.
- Bake:
- Bake salmon for 10–12 minutes, until just cooked through and flaky.
- Salsa:
- While the salmon bakes, gently combine pomegranate seeds, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime zest and juice, olive oil, and salt in a bowl.
- Serve:
- Plate salmon and top each piece with the pomegranate salsa. Serve with lime wedges.
Save It Sharing this colorful salmon at the table always sparks lively conversation. Even picky eaters in our home love the sweet-tart salsa that balances the bold spices.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines with a side of quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon). Cajun seasoning may include mustard or other allergens—always check labels. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
Nutrition Info
Each serving contains 340 calories, 16 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 33 g protein.
Save It This Cajun spiced salmon is sure to become a weeknight favorite, bringing vibrant color and delicious flavor to your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of salmon works best?
Both skin-on and skinless salmon fillets work well. Skin-on adds extra flavor and helps keep the salmon moist during baking.
- → Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes, for more spice, add cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or include extra jalapeño in the salsa.
- → How fresh should the pomegranate seeds be?
Use fresh pomegranate seeds for the best burst of sweetness and texture in the salsa. Frozen seeds can be used but may be less crisp.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables complement the savory and tangy flavors beautifully.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, but always verify spice blends to avoid hidden allergens.