Save It A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring spicy Cajun-rubbed salmon fillets paired with a fresh, tangy pomegranate salsa. Perfect for a healthy and impressive weeknight dinner.
When I first tried Cajun salmon paired with pomegranate salsa, I loved how the heat balanced beautifully with the cool, juicy sweetness. Now, it's my go-to dish when I want something simple but vibrant to impress my family or guests.
Ingredients
- Salmon: 4 salmon fillets (about 150 g each), skin-on or skinless, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pomegranate Salsa: 1 cup pomegranate seeds (arils), 1/2 cup diced cucumber, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely diced), zest and juice of 1 lime, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt
- To Serve: lime wedges
Instructions
- Prep the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Season the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Place the fillets on the prepared baking tray, skin-side down if applicable.
- Bake:
- Bake the salmon for 10–12 minutes, or until just cooked through and flaky.
- Make Salsa:
- While the salmon is baking, prepare the pomegranate salsa: In a medium bowl, gently combine the pomegranate seeds, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime zest and juice, olive oil, and salt.
- Plate and Serve:
- Remove the salmon from the oven. Plate each fillet and spoon the pomegranate salsa generously over the top. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Save It My family always requests this salmon for busy weeknights because the flavors are exciting, but everything comes together so quickly that I can enjoy dinner with them without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Required Tools
Baking tray, parchment paper, mixing bowls, sharp knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon). Cajun seasoning may have mustard or other allergens—check labels if sensitive. Gluten-free and dairy-free; always verify spice blends.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 340 calories, 16 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 33 g protein.
Save It This Cajun salmon shines with its lively salsa and is perfect for busy nights or when you want a dish that's as pretty as it is delicious.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What is the best way to cook Cajun spiced salmon?
Baking salmon at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes ensures a juicy and flaky texture while allowing the Cajun seasoning to infuse the fish with bold flavor.
- → How is the pomegranate salsa prepared?
The salsa combines fresh pomegranate seeds, diced cucumber, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime zest and juice, olive oil, and salt, mixed gently for a bright and tangy topping.
- → Can I adjust the heat level in this dish?
Yes, adding extra cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or increasing jalapeño in the salsa will boost the spiciness to your liking.
- → What sides complement this salmon and salsa pairing?
This hearty fish dish pairs well with quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables, balancing the bold flavors and textures.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?
Yes, it naturally contains no gluten or dairy, but it's important to verify that the Cajun seasoning used is free of hidden allergens.