Description
This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets coated in a flavorful Cajun seasoning and topped with a luscious honey butter sauce infused with garlic and lemon. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make dish that delivers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors with a crispy crust and tender, flaky interior.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skin on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt, to taste
Honey Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Black sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels. Drying the fish helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a crispier, golden crust when cooking.
- Season the Salmon: Rub each salmon fillet with olive oil evenly on all sides. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning all over the fillets, including a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. The olive oil helps the spices adhere and creates a rich exterior.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the skillet and let them sear undisturbed for about 3 minutes to develop a nice crust. Flip the fillets so the skin side is down and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Make the Honey Butter Sauce: While the salmon is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, and minced garlic. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice to add brightness.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Pour the prepared honey butter sauce over the salmon fillets directly in the skillet. Continue cooking while spooning the sauce over the fillets regularly for about 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon fillets to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining honey butter sauce from the skillet over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle with black sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh wild-caught salmon fillets with skin on for optimal flavor and texture.
- Patting the salmon dry is key to achieving a crispy sear without steaming the fish.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild seasoning blend.
- The honey butter sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
