Recipes Cajun Blackened Salmon Salad

Cajun Blackened Salmon Salad: A Flavorful Fusion of Cajun Spice and Fresh Ingredients

Introduction

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Cajun cuisine with this delectable Cajun Blackened Salmon Salad. This vibrant dish combines the bold spice of blackened salmon with a refreshing medley of fresh ingredients, creating a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy lunch or an impressive dinner option, this salad is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound salmon fillet, skin-on
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup mixed greens (such as romaine lettuce, arugula, and spinach)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup vinaigrette dressing (see recipe below)

Vinaigrette Dressing Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Blackening the Salmon

1. Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels.
3. Season the salmon generously with the Cajun seasoning.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon and rub it in to coat.
5. Place the salmon skin-side down in the preheated skillet or grill pan.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and blackened on the outside.
7. Remove the salmon from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before flaking it into bite-sized pieces.

Assembling the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, red onion, bell pepper, celery, cucumber, parsley, cilantro, feta cheese, walnuts, and cranberries.
2. Add the flaked blackened salmon to the bowl.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Vinaigrette Dressing Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

Tips

• For a spicier salad, use more Cajun seasoning.
• If you don’t have a grill pan, you can blacken the salmon in a regular skillet. Just make sure the skillet is very hot before adding the salmon.
• You can use any type of mixed greens you like.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as tomatoes, carrots, or avocado.
• The vinaigrette dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Cajun Blackened Salmon Salad (about 1 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams

Conclusion

Cajun Blackened Salmon Salad is a delectable dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the freshness of a vibrant salad. Whether you’re looking for a healthy and satisfying lunch or a flavorful dinner option, this salad is sure to impress. With its tantalizing blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and creamy vinaigrette dressing, this salad will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or skillet, and prepare to indulge in a culinary adventure that will awaken your taste buds.