Description

This delicious Baked Cajun Salmon with Parmesan Risotto recipe combines flavorful, spicy salmon fillets with a rich and creamy risotto infused with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting yet elegant dinner, the salmon is seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices and baked to flaky perfection while the risotto is cooked stovetop, slowly absorbing warm broth for a luscious texture.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cajun Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon salt
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

For the Parmesan Risotto:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion (finely chopped)
1½ cups arborio rice
½ cup dry white wine (optional)
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (kept warm)
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Salmon: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat salmon fillets dry, then rub with olive oil and season all over with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Squeeze lemon juice over the top if desired.
Prepare the Parmesan Risotto: While the salmon bakes, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in arborio rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to toast slightly. Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed. Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to absorb before adding more. Continue this process for about 20–25 minutes, until rice is creamy and tender. Stir in remaining butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley if using.
Serve: Serve the baked Cajun salmon over a bed of creamy Parmesan risotto. Garnish with extra cheese, parsley, or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Keep the broth warm while making risotto for best texture.
You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.
This meal pairs well with a side of sautéed greens or roasted asparagus.