There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty meal that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. I remember the first time I had blackened salmon—it was like a flavor explosion! Pairing it with Cajun shrimp over creamy parmesan grits takes it to a whole new level. This dish is not only easy to whip up, but it also makes for a memorable dinner that will have your loved ones asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love Blackened Salmon & Cajun Shrimp over Creamy Parmesan Grits
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and on the table in about 30 minutes.
- Easy: This dish involves simple steps that even beginner cooks can master.
- Impressive: Serve it up for dinner parties, and your guests will be raving about it!
- Crowd-pleasing: The combination of flavors appeals to everyone, making it a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- For the Blackened Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – adds that perfect kick!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for that aromatic flavor!
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – to brighten the dish.
- For the Creamy Parmesan Grits:
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter – because everything is better with butter!
How to Make Blackened Salmon & Cajun Shrimp over Creamy Parmesan Grits
- Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Grits:
- In a pot, bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil.
- Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Keep warm while you prepare the rest.
- Cook the Blackened Salmon:
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Rub the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning generously.
- Add olive oil to the skillet and sear the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and beautifully blackened. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Cajun Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.
- Serve:
- Spoon the creamy Parmesan grits onto plates, top with blackened salmon and Cajun shrimp. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Substitutions & Additions
- If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Try using other types of fish like tilapia or trout if you prefer.
- For a vegetarian option, swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms and add some spinach for color.
Tips for Success
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should flake easily with a fork.
- Stir the grits occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the grits in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.
How to Store Blackened Salmon & Cajun Shrimp over Creamy Parmesan Grits
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the grits if needed.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- What can I serve with this dish? A fresh green salad or some crusty bread pairs beautifully!
For more delicious recipes, check out Quick Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon or Grilled Chicken Creamy Pasta Bowl for treats you will love! And don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more inspiration!
Blackened Salmon & Cajun Shrimp over Creamy Parmesan Grits
A hearty meal that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, featuring blackened salmon paired with Cajun shrimp over creamy parmesan grits—a memorable dinner that will have your loved ones asking for seconds!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- whisk
Ingredients
For the Blackened Salmon
- 4 fillets salmon
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning adds that perfect kick!
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cajun Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice to brighten the dish
For the Creamy Parmesan Grits
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tbsp butter because everything is better with butter!
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a pot, bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Keep warm while you prepare the rest.
- Step 2: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Rub the salmon fillets with Cajun seasoning generously. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and beautifully blackened. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.
- Step 4: Spoon the creamy Parmesan grits onto plates, top with blackened salmon and Cajun shrimp. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the grits if needed.
