Print

Baked Cajun Salmon Recipe with Zesty Asparagus

baked Cajun salmon - featured image
Print Recipe

This easy baked Cajun salmon with zesty asparagus is a bold, flavorful, and healthy dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it features a spicy Cajun rub on moist salmon and crisp-tender asparagus roasted with lemon.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 1.5 lbs total, skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for salmon)
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 lb asparagus spears, trimmed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for asparagus)
  • Juice from 1/2 lemon
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • Sea salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Extra lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, half the lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and stir to form a paste.
  3. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on one side of the baking sheet. Spread the Cajun paste over the tops and sides of each fillet. Sprinkle with extra lemon zest if desired.
  4. In a large bowl, toss asparagus spears with 1 tablespoon olive oil, juice from half a lemon, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt and pepper. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the other side of the baking sheet.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 14-16 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork (internal temp should reach 145°F) and asparagus is crisp-tender and bright green. If asparagus is thick, it may need an extra 2-3 minutes.
  6. Remove from oven and squeeze extra lemon juice over everything. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  7. Use a fish spatula to gently transfer salmon fillets to plates. Serve with roasted asparagus and extra lemon wedges.

Notes

Pat salmon dry for best crust. Use fillets of similar thickness for even cooking. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste. Spread asparagus out to avoid steaming. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon. Swap in other veggies like green beans or broccolini if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked salmon, Cajun salmon, sheet pan dinner, healthy salmon recipe, asparagus, 30 minute dinner, gluten free, dairy free, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/baked-cajun-salmon-recipe-with-zesty-asparagus-easy-30-minute-dinner/