Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

A plate of Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut is a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and indulgent. With its blackened Cajun-seasoned salmon, creamy garlic mashed potatoes topped with zesty pepper gravy, and vibrant shrimp-broccoli saut, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of Cajun spices and garlic creates a deliciously rich taste that excites the palate.
• Comfort Food: Creamy mashed potatoes paired with savory gravy provide the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from prep to table, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with protein from salmon and shrimp, along with nutritious broccoli, it’s a well-rounded meal.
• Visual Appeal: The colorful presentation of this dish makes it a standout on any dining table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious dish, having the right tools can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Potato masher
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for pan-searing the Cajun salmon to achieve that perfect blackened crust.
• Pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes until tender for creamy mashed potatoes.
• Whisk: Helps in creating a smooth pepper gravy without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Cajun Salmon:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt, to taste

For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled & cubed
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup milk (more if needed)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Pepper Gravy:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp-Broccoli Saut:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 8-10 medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tsp olive oil
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain them well. In a bowl, mash the potatoes with butter, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Cook the Cajun Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry. Coat them with olive oil and sprinkle Cajun seasoning generously over each fillet. Heat a skillet over medium heat and pan-sear the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s blackened and fully cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for about one minute until lightly golden. Gradually pour in milk while continuously whisking until thickened. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

Heat olive oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and sauté for about 2-3 minutes. Then add shrimp seasoned with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook till shrimp turn pink and broccoli is tender.

Step 5: Assemble the Plate

On each plate, arrange your servings of Cajun salmon alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes topped with pepper gravy. Add a generous portion of shrimp-broccoli saut next to it. Serve hot for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

Serving Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut is all about presentation and flavor balance. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your plate.

Plating Ideas

• Layered Presentation: Stack the mashed potatoes on one side of the plate, topped with gravy, and place the blackened salmon on top. This creates a beautiful height contrast.
• Rustic Style: Serve the salmon directly in the skillet for a warm, casual vibe, with mashed potatoes and shrimp-broccoli sautéed on the side.

Garnishing Tips

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the salmon and mashed potatoes for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Add lemon wedges alongside your dish for a zesty finish that complements the Cajun spices.

Accompanying Sauces

• Hot Sauce: Offer a side of Louisiana hot sauce for those who like an extra kick.
• Creamy Dressing: A light ranch or garlic dressing can be drizzled over the shrimp-broccoli sauté for added creaminess.

How to Perfect Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

To ensure your meal turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips for cooking Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh salmon fillets and vegetables; they greatly enhance flavor and texture.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the Cajun seasoning. It’s key to achieving that bold flavor profile in your salmon.
• Properly Cook Potatoes: Make sure potatoes are tender before mashing. This ensures a creamy consistency in your garlic mashed potatoes.
• Monitor Cooking Times: Keep an eye on both the salmon and shrimp to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
• Adjust Gravy Consistency: If your pepper gravy is too thick, add more milk gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas in the shrimp-broccoli sauté for added color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

Pairing side dishes with your Cajun Salmon enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of your main dish.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the spice of Cajun seasoning perfectly; consider grilling it for extra flavor.
3. Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread can soak up any leftover gravy while adding comforting carbs to your meal.
4. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a light balance to the hearty components of this dish.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus brings an earthy flavor that pairs well with salmon and mashed potatoes.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds a healthy touch while keeping things vibrant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning your salmon can lead to bland results. Always coat the salmon with Cajun seasoning generously for that bold flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooked shrimp should be pink and tender. Overcooking makes them rubbery. Keep an eye on them; they only need a few minutes until they turn pink.
• Ignoring potato texture: Lumpy mashed potatoes can ruin the dish’s creaminess. Ensure you mash the potatoes well and add enough milk for a smooth consistency.
• Not monitoring cooking times: Timing is crucial in this recipe. Pay attention to each component’s cooking time, so everything is hot and fresh when served.
• Forgetting about presentation: A beautiful plate enhances the dining experience. Arrange your salmon, mashed potatoes, and sautéed shrimp-broccoli thoughtfully for a striking presentation.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the food cools down before sealing it.

Freezing Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

• Freeze in separate containers for optimal quality.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy identification.

Reheating Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power, reheating in 1-minute intervals, stirring as needed until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, stirring often, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut?

You can pair this dish with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra gravy.

How spicy is Cajun Salmon?

The spiciness depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning used. Adjust according to your preference for heat!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic mashed potatoes and sauté the shrimp-broccoli beforehand. Reheat before serving for fresh flavors.

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Fresh or frozen wild-caught salmon works best due to its rich flavor and texture.

Can I use different vegetables in the saut?

Yes! Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers or snap peas according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut is a delightful dish that brings bold flavors and comforting textures to your table. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level! Enjoy making this hearty meal that everyone will love.

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Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Saut

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

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Description

Cajun Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Shrimp-Broccoli Sauté is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines the zest of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed shrimp and broccoli. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a satisfying meal that is both hearty and indulgent. The blackened salmon fillets are seasoned to perfection, while the garlic mashed potatoes provide a creamy base elevated by zesty pepper gravy. Complemented by colorful shrimp and broccoli sauté, this dish will not only impress your guests but also create a delightful dining experience for your family.

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Ingredients

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• 2 salmon fillets
• 3 medium potatoes
• 8–10 medium shrimp
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Boil cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Pat salmon dry and coat with olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Sear in a skillet on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side until blackened.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk to create pepper gravy. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. In another skillet, heat olive oil; sauté broccoli for 2-3 minutes then add shrimp seasoned with paprika until pink.
5. Serve salmon alongside mashed potatoes topped with gravy and shrimp-broccoli sauté.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (450g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 150mg