Sweet and Spicy Cajun Salmon
This Sweet and Spicy Cajun Salmon features a glaze of caramelized brown sugar and Cajun seasoning, baked to perfection and finished with a squeeze of lime for a quick yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 fillets Salmon fillets, 6–8 oz each (preferably sustainably sourced)
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning, 1–2 tsp per fillet (adjust to spice tolerance) Use a mild Creole blend for less heat, or make your own.
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar (light or dark), about 1 tbsp per 2 fillets — more for a sweeter glaze Dark brown gives deeper molasses notes; light brown is milder.
- 2 tsp Olive oil, 1–2 tsp to help bind the glaze Neutral oil like avocado oil can be used.
- 1 pinch Salt Cajun seasoning may already contain salt.
- 1 to taste Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lime Lime juice, freshly squeezed to finish Squeeze just before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper until it forms a loose glaze.
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
- Brush or spoon the glaze over each fillet, using 1–2 teaspoons of seasoning per fillet.
Cooking
- Arrange the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them for air circulation.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Check internal temperature for doneness.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes, then finish with fresh lime juice.
Notes
If you like a charred top, switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Serve over mashed potatoes or alongside a fresh salad.