Experience a vibrant burst of flavors with these Cajun Spiced Salmon Strips paired perfectly with aromatic garlic jasmine rice. This dish combines the smoky, spicy notes of Cajun seasoning with a delicate touch of maple syrup and zesty lemon, creating a beautifully balanced main course that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying.
Whether you’re craving a quick weekday dinner or a flavorful seafood treat, this meal is simple to prepare and sure to impress whether served to family or guests. The fluffy garlic-infused jasmine rice complements the tender salmon strips, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Balanced flavors combining spicy, sweet, and tangy elements.
- A nutritious, high-protein meal featuring omega-3 rich salmon.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillet: 1 lb of fresh skinless, boneless salmon, ideal for easy cutting and quick cooking without bones.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons of smooth, fruity olive oil to help infuse the marinade and keep the salmon moist.
- Cajun seasoning: 1 tablespoon of a spicy blend featuring paprika, cayenne, and herbs to add bold, smoky heat.
- Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon providing a subtle sweetness that balances the spice perfectly in the marinade.
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons to introduce a savory, umami depth enhancing the overall flavor.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish with a tangy citrus note.
- Salt: to taste, enhancing the natural flavors and seasoning the salmon evenly.
- Pepper: to taste, freshly ground black pepper adds subtle warmth and complexity.
- Jasmine rice: 1 cup of fragrant jasmine rice, which cooks fluffy and light for a perfect base.
- Water: 2 cups, used to cook the jasmine rice to tender perfection.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons melted butter to sauté garlic, enriching the rice with a creamy texture.
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced finely to release intense aroma and flavor into the rice.
- Chopped parsley (optional): a sprinkle for a fresh, vibrant garnish enhancing the presentation.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Marinade
-
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect roasting temperature while you prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, maple syrup, soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This marinade blends spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors essential for the salmon’s bold taste.
- Marinate the Salmon Strips
-
Cut the skinless salmon fillet into evenly sized strips to ensure uniform cooking. Place the strips in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Turn the strips gently to coat thoroughly. Let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the flesh.
- Arrange and Bake Salmon
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup. Arrange marinated salmon strips in a single layer, giving each piece enough space to cook evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily, indicating it’s perfectly cooked yet moist.
- Rinse and Cook Jasmine Rice
-
Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the runoff is clear, washing away excess starch for fluffier grains. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan, add the rice and a pinch of salt, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until tender and water is fully absorbed.
- Sauté Garlic and Combine with Rice
-
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and gently sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to brown it to avoid bitterness. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine, allowing the rice to absorb the garlic butter flavor. Adjust salt as needed for seasoning.
- Plate and Garnish
-
Serve the fluffy garlic rice on each plate and top with the warm, Cajun spiced salmon strips. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note. Enjoy this rich, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and exciting to the palate.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amounts to control heat level according to your preference.
- Marinate salmon no longer than 30 minutes to prevent overpowering the delicate fish flavor.
- Use parchment paper or a nonstick baking sheet for easy cleanup and to keep fish intact.
Storage Tips
Store leftover salmon and garlic rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to retain moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli to add vibrant color and nutrients. A crisp white wine or citrusy iced tea pairs nicely with the bold Cajun flavors.
- Use fresh salmon fillets for best texture and flavor; frozen salmon can be used but thaw thoroughly.
- For an extra crispy texture, broil the salmon strips for the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Rinsing the rice avoids clumping and creates fluffy, separate grains for a better mouthfeel.
FAQs
- Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
-
Yes, firm fish like cod or tilapia can be substituted, though cooking times may vary slightly.
- Is it necessary to marinate the salmon?
-
Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but you can cook the salmon with dry seasoning for a quicker option.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
-
Yes, substitute tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without compromising taste.
- How spicy is this dish?
-
It has moderate spice from the Cajun seasoning. Adjust seasoning amount based on your heat preference.
- Can I prepare the garlic rice in advance?
-
Yes, garlic rice can be made ahead and reheated, though freshly sautéed garlic offers the best aroma and flavor.
- What if I don’t have maple syrup?
-
You can use honey or brown sugar as a natural sweetener substitute with a slight variation in flavor.
- How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
-
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork without drying out, usually after 12-15 minutes baking.
Cajun Spiced Salmon Strips
Equipment
- 1 oven (optional)
- 1 medium saucepan (optional)
- 1 skillet (optional)
- 1 baking sheet (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb skinless boneless salmon fillet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Chopped parsley optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, maple syrup, soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.
- Cut the salmon fillet into strips and place in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over, coating evenly. Let marinate at least 15 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange salmon strips in a single layer.
- Bake salmon strips for 12-15 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
- Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear.
- Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Add it to the skillet with garlic and stir to combine. Heat through and adjust salt to taste.
- Serve garlic rice topped with Cajun spiced salmon strips. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount to control spiciness
- Leftover salmon stores well refrigerated up to 2 days
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor
