Baked Salmon Cajun Lime (Print Version)

Tender salmon baked with spicy Cajun seasoning and a hint of lime for vibrant flavors.

# What You Need:

→ Fish

01 - 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off

→ Seasoning

02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
04 - 1/2 tsp salt, adjusted to taste
05 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Citrus & Garnish

06 - 2 limes (1 juiced, 1 sliced for garnish)
07 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - Pat salmon fillets dry and place skin-side down on the prepared tray.
03 - Combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Brush or rub mixture evenly over tops and sides of salmon.
04 - Squeeze juice of 1 lime evenly over the seasoned fillets.
05 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
06 - Garnish with lime slices and chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It delivers bold flavor without marinating or waiting, just brush and bake.
  • The Cajun spice and lime create this addictive sweet-heat-sour balance that works every single time.
  • Cleanup is almost nonexistent, and you can have dinner on the table in under half an hour.
02 -
  • Drying the salmon thoroughly is the secret to getting that spice crust to stick and caramelize instead of sliding off.
  • Check doneness at 12 minutes, ovens vary and thicker fillets need the extra time but thin ones cook fast.
03 -
  • Add a pinch of lime zest to the seasoning mix for an extra layer of citrus that blooms in the heat.
  • Let the salmon sit at room temperature for ten minutes before baking so it cooks more evenly.
  • Use a pastry brush to spread the oil and spice mixture smoothly, it gives you better control than your fingers.