Description
This Sweet & Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Salmon Delight features tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection with a luscious blend of honey, buttery Cajun spices, and a hint of smoky paprika and cayenne heat. Finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon and optional fresh parsley garnish, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, making it an easy and elegant main course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Honey Butter Mixture
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the salmon.
- Prepare the Cajun Honey Butter: In a small bowl, combine the unsalted butter, honey, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly using paper towels. Lightly brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere and to promote even cooking.
- Apply the Honey Butter: Place the oiled salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish. Spoon the prepared Cajun honey butter mixture generously over the top of each fillet, spreading evenly to coat.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over all the salmon fillets to add brightness and enhance the flavors.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet or dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Optional Broiling: For a beautifully caramelized top, switch the oven to broil and broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or gently reheated.
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the salmon briefly in part of the honey butter mixture before baking.
