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- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 vibrant red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds - 1 small red onion, sliced into half-moons - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish - Lemon wedges, for serving When preparing Baked Cajun Salmon, you need to gather fresh ingredients. Start with salmon fillets, which provide a rich and tasty base. The Cajun seasoning gives the dish its signature kick. I often choose a blend that includes paprika, cayenne, and garlic for the best flavor. Next, I like to add olive oil. It helps the seasoning stick and keeps the salmon moist. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and adds a tangy touch. Garlic powder enhances the savory notes. For vegetables, I prefer a mix of red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. They roast beautifully alongside the salmon. Their colors make the dish pop. For finishing touches, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It adds a vibrant green color. Lemon wedges are a must for serving. A squeeze of lemon elevates the flavors. You can find the full recipe with detailed steps and notes for perfecting this dish. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help the salmon cook evenly and quickly. Next, prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend will add a great kick to your salmon. Now, let's marinate the salmon. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish. Make sure they fit snugly without overlapping. Pour the marinade over the salmon. Use a spoon or brush to coat each fillet evenly. Let the salmon soak in the flavors for about 15 minutes. This soaking time is key; it helps the fish absorb all those tasty spices. While the salmon marinates, prepare your vegetables. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and add salt and pepper. Toss the veggies until they are well coated. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly. Arrange the marinated salmon in the center of the baking sheet. Surround it with the seasoned vegetables. Spread the veggies out to ensure even cooking. It’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know the salmon is done when it looks opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For safety, the salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Your Baked Cajun Salmon is ready to impress. Don't forget to check the full recipe for more details! Marinating the salmon is key. Let it soak for at least 15 minutes. This short time allows the flavors to blend well. Use two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. This amount gives a nice kick without being too spicy. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Too much salt can overpower the dish, so be careful. For easy cleanup, use foil or parchment paper on your baking sheet. This keeps the salmon from sticking and makes washing up a breeze. To avoid overcooking the salmon, check it at 15 minutes. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you leave it too long, the fish can dry out. Plating your dish can make it more appealing. Serve the salmon on a bed of the roasted veggies. This adds color and makes the dish look fancy. You can also sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of green. Add lemon wedges around the plate for a bright touch. This adds flavor and looks great! For the full recipe, check here. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of your Baked Cajun Salmon with different spice blends. Try a smoky paprika mix for a different kick. You can also use Creole seasoning if you want a milder taste. If you are adventurous, blend spices like cayenne, thyme, and oregano to make your own Cajun seasoning. Just mix equal parts of each to create a unique blend. If you don’t have bell peppers, zucchini, or onions, don’t worry! You can swap them for other veggies. Broccoli, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes work well. Adding more veggies boosts the nutrition and flavor of your dish. Always aim for a colorful mix on your plate. This makes your meal not only tasty but also visually appealing. You can grill or bake your salmon, each method has its perks. Grilling gives a smoky taste and crispy edges. Baking, on the other hand, keeps the salmon juicy and tender. If you want a hands-off option, try a slow cooker. Just place your marinated salmon in the slow cooker and set it on low for about 2-3 hours. You still get that rich Cajun flavor without much fuss. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section. To store baked salmon, let it cool first. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the salmon moist and fresh. Baked salmon lasts in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. When reheating salmon, do it gently. Use the oven or a skillet for best results. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warm. In a skillet, add a splash of water and cover. This helps to keep the fish moist. The safe temperature for reheating cooked salmon is 145°F (63°C). Use a food thermometer to check. To freeze baked salmon, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as you can. This prevents freezer burn. Salmon can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it using the same tips mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious meal! For the full recipe, check out the link. Cajun seasoning blends several spices. It usually includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. Some mixes add thyme and oregano. Each spice adds depth and heat to your dish. You can buy it pre-made or mix your own at home. Yes, you can. If you prefer white fish, try tilapia or cod. You can also use trout for a richer flavor. These fish cook well and absorb the Cajun spices nicely. Just adjust cooking times for thinner fillets. Try pairing your salmon with rice or quinoa. Both add a nice base for the dish. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also work great. A fresh salad with lemon dressing can brighten up the meal too. The best way is to check the temperature. Salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). It should also look opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it’s still pink in the middle, give it a bit more time. Baked Cajun salmon is a simple and tasty meal. Using just a few key ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish. Remember to marinate your salmon and choose fresh veggies to boost health. With tips for tasty seasoning and easy cleanup, you’ll impress anyone with your cooking. Try different spices and veggies for fun variations. Enjoy leftovers in many ways, and always check for proper cooking. Follow these steps, and you'll serve up a winning dish every time!

Baked Cajun Salmon

Discover the deliciousness of Baked Cajun Salmon Delight with this easy recipe! Perfectly seasoned salmon fillets are baked alongside colorful veggies for a vibrant, flavorful meal. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a healthy dish that's both satisfying and bursting with Cajun spice. Ready to elevate your dinner? Click through to explore this mouthwatering recipe and impress your family with your culinary skills!
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Ingredients
  

4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (choose store-bought or make your own)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 vibrant red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds

1 small red onion, sliced into half-moons

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

    Make the marinade: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This aromatic mixture will serve as both a marinade and flavor enhancer for the salmon.

      Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish, ensuring they snugly fit without overlapping. Pour the marinade over each fillet, using a spoon or brush to coat them evenly. Allow the salmon to soak in the flavors by letting it rest for about 15 minutes.

        Prepare the vegetables: While the salmon is marinating, take a separate bowl and add the sliced red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated.

          Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or lightly grease it with cooking spray or extra olive oil to prevent sticking.

            Arrange salmon and vegetables: Carefully place the marinated salmon fillets in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Surround them with the seasoned vegetable mixture, spreading the veggies out to ensure even cooking.

              Bake to perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

                Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

                  Enjoy your meal: Serve the salmon and vegetables immediately on warm plates, accompanied by lemon wedges to squeeze over the dish for that zesty kick.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, plate the salmon on a bed of roasted vegetables, garnish with additional parsley, and arrange the lemon wedges artfully around the dish. Enjoy!