Cajun Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Description

This Cajun Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a restaurant-worthy meal made right at home! Juicy, pan-seared Cajun salmon fillets are topped with buttery garlic shrimp and served over a bed of velvety mashed potatoes. The dish is rich, spicy, creamy, and bursting with flavor — perfect for date night or an indulgent family dinner.

Ingredients For Cajun Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For the Cajun Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Shrimp:

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed

• 3 tbsp butter

• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter version)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional for richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, or until tender.

2. Drain and mash with butter, cream, and Parmesan.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets dry and rub with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Sear salmon for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.

4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and remove from pan.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same pan, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.

2. Add shrimp and sprinkle Cajun seasoning. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink.

3. Drizzle lemon juice and toss to coat.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Scoop creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.

2. Place a salmon fillet on top and spoon Cajun shrimp over it.

3. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun spice.

4. Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables or salad.

Notes

• You can substitute tilapia or cod for salmon if desired.

• For extra creaminess, use half mashed potatoes, half cauliflower mash.

• Add a splash of cream to the shrimp pan for a quick creamy sauce.

Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing salmon; it helps form a crispy crust.

• Use fresh shrimp for the best texture.

• For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika in the Cajun seasoning.

• To keep potatoes fluffy, don’t overmix after adding cream.

Servings

• Serves 4 people

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Health Benefits

• High in protein from salmon and shrimp for muscle support.

• Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon promote heart and brain health.

• Potatoes provide potassium and energy.

• Garlic and lemon add antioxidants and support immunity.

• Balanced meal with carbs, fats, and protein.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them with a bit of milk. Cook the salmon and shrimp just before serving for best texture.

Q2: Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon?
Yes, but ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.

Q3: How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for more heat.

Q4: What sides go well with this dish?
Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a light coleslaw pair perfectly.

Q5: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk in the mashed potatoes.