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Cajun Salmon with Mango Salsa

Cajun salmon with mango salsa on rustic board in close up food photo

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A vibrant weeknight dinner where smoky, spicy Cajun salmon meets a fresh, sweet, and tangy mango salsa. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a healthy, flavor-packed meal that feels special any night.

Ingredients

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  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, divided
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 large ripe mango, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely minced (optional)
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the mango salsa first. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Pour the lime juice over the mixture, add a pinch of salt, and gently toss. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you cook the salmon.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the oil and rub it over all sides.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning with the kosher salt. Sprinkle the mixture generously and evenly over the top and sides of each salmon fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.
  4. Heat a large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel is ideal) over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
  5. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets in the pan, seasoned-side down. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes, until a deep crust forms.
  6. Gently flip the fillets and cook for another 3 to 6 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Serve the hot salmon immediately, topped with a generous spoonful of the mango salsa and with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

For a milder dish, use a mild Cajun seasoning blend. If your mango is not ripe, you can substitute with thawed frozen mango, diced pineapple, or peaches. Always pat the salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

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