Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp Vegetable Medley is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures in a way that’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Imagine a tender, blackened salmon fillet adorned with a zesty Cajun spice blend, paired with creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes and a colorful shrimp vegetable medley. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something a bit special without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe special
Why should you make this dish? There are countless reasons! First, it’s a quick option that can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The Cajun seasoning adds a dynamic kick that everyone in the family will enjoy, plus the garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting classic. It’s a balanced meal, highlighting fresh shrimp and vibrant veggies, so you can feel good about serving it.
“The Cajun Salmon was a game changer! The seasoning was on point, and the garlic mashed potatoes were so creamy. My kids loved it!”
Preparing Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp Vegetable Medley
This recipe comes together in just a few straightforward steps. You’ll start with the salmon, followed by the creamy garlic mashed potatoes, and finish with the colorful shrimp and vegetable medley. Here’s what you need to know before diving into the kitchen!
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What you’ll need
Gather these essential ingredients for a flavorful experience:
- Salmon fillets
- Cajun seasoning
- Salt
- Paprika
- Olive oil
- Lemon wedges
- Potatoes, peeled & cubed
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Butter
- Milk or cream
- Black pepper
- Shrimp, peeled & deveined
- Broccoli florets
- Carrot slices
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Olive oil
- More salt & pepper (to taste)
- Parsley, chopped (optional)
Feel free to substitute halibut for salmon if that’s your preference or if you have leftovers, roasted garlic works wonderfully in the mash instead of fresh.
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a culinary masterpiece:
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Cook the Cajun Salmon: Start by rubbing the salmon fillets with olive oil, then generously season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt. In a medium-high heated pan, cook the salmon for 3–4 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully blackened and flaky. Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten the flavors!
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Make the Garlic Mash: Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for about 12–15 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Drain them, then mash with butter, minced garlic, and milk (or cream) until they’re creamy and fluffy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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Prepare the Shrimp Veggie Medley: In another pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant. Add your broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, cooking until they’re tender yet crisp. Toss in the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until the shrimp turn a lovely pink color (around 2–3 minutes). Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness.
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Assemble: On a plate, scoop up a generous helping of your garlic mash, lay the Cajun salmon on top, and serve with the shrimp vegetable medley on the side.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Cajun Salmon with a side of mixed greens drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for extra freshness. A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé, pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the Cajun spices and seafood beautifully. Don’t forget that an extra squeeze of lemon over everything elevates the flavor profile even further!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your meal stays fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions (without the mashed potatoes) for up to 2 months. When reheating, ensure everything is warmed thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Pro chef tips
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Keep an eye on them as they cook quickly and will become rubbery if overdone. The moment they turn pink, they’re ready!
- Flavor boost: For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in a tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning mixed with olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the garlic mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them just before serving. This will save you time on busy nights!
Creative twists
Experiment with this recipe by introducing different spices or herbs! If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, try using Italian seasoning instead of Cajun. For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes to your shrimp vegetable medley. You can also use sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes for a unique flavor twist.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The total time from start to finish is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to shrimp or just prefer not to use it, feel free to omit it or replace it with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of your fillet.
Enjoy the explosion of flavors in this beautifully balanced meal that is sure to impress everyone at your table!
