Name: Baked Cajun Salmon with Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless); 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 ripe avocado; 1 lime, juiced; ¼ cup Greek yogurt; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

A vibrant, flavorful salmon dish that feels like a celebration on a plate. With a punchy Cajun kick and a smooth, zesty avocado lime sauce, I fell in love with this as soon as I tried it—it’s restaurant-quality yet easy enough for a weeknight.

Baked Cajun Salmon with Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, yet it offers bold Cajun flavor balanced by a cool, creamy sauce. It’s healthy—packed with omega‑3s—and versatile: it works beautifully for casual dinners or when I want to impress guests. Plus, clean‑up is minimal, and everything cooks on one baking sheet.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin‑on or skinless)
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce:

1 ripe avocado
1 lime (juiced)
¼ cup Greek yogurt
1 clove garlic (minced)
Salt (to taste)
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
I pat the salmon dry, drizzle it with olive oil, then season each fillet with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
I place the salmon on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between fillets.
I bake it for 12–15 minutes, until the salmon is flaky and just cooked through.
While the salmon bakes, I blend the avocado, lime juice, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Once the salmon is done, I plate it, drizzle with the avocado lime sauce, and garnish with cilantro if I’m feeling fresh.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 salmon fillets, serves 4 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

I swap Cajun seasoning for smoked paprika and garlic powder if I prefer a milder spice profile.
I add a few dashes of hot sauce into the avocado sauce for extra heat.
I serve it over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens to make it a full meal.
I mix chopped jalapeño or cilantro into the sauce for an herby twist.
I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or a vegan alternative if I want a different tang or dairy-free version.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the salmon gently in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through. The avocado sauce can separate slightly after refrigeration—if that happens, I just give it a quick stir before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes—I let it thaw completely in the fridge overnight before seasoning and baking. Then I follow the exact same steps.

2. How do I know when the salmon is done?

I look for flaky flesh that pulls apart easily with a fork. The internal temperature should read around 145°F (63°C).

3. Can I make the avocado lime sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed on the surface to prevent browning.

4. What should I serve with this salmon?

I like pairing it with steamed veggies, rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad to soak up the delicious sauce.

5. Is the Cajun seasoning homemade or store‑bought?

I usually use a store‑bought Cajun blend, but homemade works great too. I combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper if I’m making it myself.

Conclusion

I love how quickly this dish comes together and how the bold Cajun flavor plays off the cool, creamy avocado lime sauce. It feels both indulgent and light, and it’s effortless to prepare. Whether I’m cooking for family or entertaining friends, this baked Cajun salmon is always a hit—easy, delicious, and full of color and flavor.