Cajun Honey Butter Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you enjoy bold, flavorful dishes that come together quickly, this Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is for you. The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, sweet honey, and savory butter creates a beautifully balanced sauce that perfectly complements the rich, flaky texture of the salmon. The dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight or even a special dinner. The addition of fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and black sesame seeds gives it a beautiful, restaurant-quality finish. It’s a one-pan meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 salmon fillets (skin on)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

• Salt (to taste)

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

• Black sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil and season generously with Cajun seasoning. Add salt to taste.

2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side up and sear for about 3 minutes, until they form a nice crust. Flip the salmon over so the skin side is down and cook for another 2 minutes.

3. While the salmon is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined and simmer for a couple of minutes. Remove from heat and squeeze in the lemon juice.

4. Pour the honey butter sauce over the salmon fillets. Continue to cook the salmon, spooning the sauce over regularly, for another 3-5 minutes.

5. Once the salmon is cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, lemon wedges, and sprinkle black sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Honey Butter Salmon: If you like extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the honey butter sauce.

• Salmon with a Twist: Try using different herbs for garnish, such as thyme or dill, for a unique flavor profile.

• Honey Mustard Glaze: Swap out the honey for mustard to create a tangy honey mustard glaze that pairs wonderfully with the Cajun spices.

• Grilled Version: For a smoky flavor, grill the salmon fillets instead of searing them in the pan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon in a skillet over medium-low heat and warm it through, adding a little extra butter or sauce if necessary to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when my salmon is cooked?

Salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe with skinless salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use skinless salmon fillets, but they may not crisp up as nicely. The skin helps to create a golden crust when searing.

Can I use a different fish for this recipe?

While salmon works best for this dish, you can try using other fish like trout or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Can I make the honey butter sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the honey butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before using.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I use a different seasoning mix?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other seasoning blends, such as Old Bay seasoning, or create your own spice mix to suit your taste.

What can I serve with Cajun Honey Butter Salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the salmon in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes. Make sure to baste the salmon with the honey butter sauce during the cooking process.

Is this dish spicy?

The Cajun seasoning gives the dish a mild to medium level of spice. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning.

How long will leftover Cajun Honey Butter Salmon last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a quick and delicious dish that delivers bold flavors with a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. It’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to be served with a variety of sides, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The crispy salmon, complemented by the rich honey butter sauce, is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.