Name: Cajun Honey Butter Grilled Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; to salt and pepper (to taste); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature, see note 1); 3 tablespoons honey; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons paprika, smoked paprika (if you have it); 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, or 1/2 teaspoon finely ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

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Friends, get ready to fall in love with this sweet-and-spicy Cajun grilled salmon! As someone who lives for those warm summer evenings spent cooking outdoors, I’m thrilled to share this 15-minute wonder with you. The salmon turns out incredibly moist and flaky, topped with the most incredible honey butter that literally melts in your mouth. Trust me, this isn’t just dinner – it’s a flavor experience you’ll want to make again and again!

Every time I fire up the grill during summer, I try to soak up every bit of that gorgeous weather. There’s something magical about cooking outside that makes everything taste better, especially when you’re working with a recipe as foolproof as this one. And speaking of foolproof recipes, if you love bold flavors like this, you’ll also want to try my Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for another exciting dinner option!

Why You’ll Go Crazy for This Recipe

Let me count the ways you’ll fall head over heels for this salmon! First, the homemade Cajun seasoning is a game-changer. Just like when I’m testing my favorite cookie recipes, I’ve found that making your own spice blend gives you complete control over the flavors. Plus, it’s such a smart way to use up those partial jars of spices hanging out in your pantry!

The real magic happens when we mix this bold seasoning with honey and butter – oh my goodness! The combination creates this incredible sweet-heat situation that’s absolutely irresistible. The butter melts into the warm salmon, creating this luxurious glaze that’ll make you feel like you’re dining at a fancy restaurant.

Best of all? This recipe is both incredibly quick and surprisingly healthy. The salmon is packed with those heart-healthy omega-3s we all need more of, and you can easily adjust the butter amount to suit your preferences without losing any of that amazing flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious!

Ingredients Overview

Let’s talk about what makes this Cajun grilled salmon so special! Like my crispy spicy salmon bowls, we’re building layers of bold flavors with just a few key ingredients:

Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, center-cut salmon portions that are about 6 ounces each. Wild-caught salmon has a richer flavor, but farm-raised works beautifully too. The fat content in salmon helps carry all our bold Cajun flavors.

Cajun Seasoning Blend:
• Paprika – Adds a gorgeous color and subtle sweetness
• Cayenne – Brings the signature Louisiana heat
• Garlic & Onion Powder – For savory depth
• Oregano & Thyme – Herbs that define Cajun cooking
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and bite

Honey Butter Components:
• Unsalted Butter – Using unsalted lets us control the saltiness
• Local Honey – Balances the spices with natural sweetness
• Reserved Cajun Seasoning – We’ll fold this right into our butter

Success Tips & Tricks

Y’all, I’ve made this recipe countless times and just like my hot honey chicken, these little details make all the difference:

Seasoning Storage:
Make extra Cajun seasoning and store it in an airtight container away from heat and light. It stays fresh for up to 6 months and is perfect for quick weeknight meals.

Butter Tips:
Let your butter soften naturally at room temperature for about 1 hour before mixing. If it’s too soft, the honey butter won’t hold its shape. When it leaves a slight indent when pressed, it’s perfect!

Salmon Success:
• Pat the fillets completely dry before seasoning
• Let salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling
• Oil your grill grates well to prevent sticking
• Don’t move the salmon until it releases easily from the grill

These simple steps ensure your salmon stays moist while developing that gorgeous caramelized exterior we’re looking for!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let me walk you through making this mouthwatering Cajun grilled salmon! The process is simpler than you might think, and I’ll share all my favorite tips along the way.

Preparing the Cajun Honey Butter

1. Start by making your Cajun seasoning blend. In a small bowl, combine:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon black pepper

2. For the honey butter, grab your electric mixer and whip 1/2 cup unsalted butter until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Mix in 3 tablespoons honey and 1 tablespoon of your Cajun seasoning until smooth and well combined.

Grilling the Salmon

1. Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels – this helps create that perfect sear!

2. Rub each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Like my favorite Cajun chicken, the seasoning sticks better to slightly oiled meat.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F)

4. Place salmon on the hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Recipe Variations

There are so many ways to make this recipe your own! Here are some of my tested variations:

Lighter Options

– Skip the honey butter and just use the Cajun seasoning directly on the salmon
– Use half the butter amount and double the honey for a lighter glaze
– Try it alongside sausage and peppers for a complete meal

Flavor Twists

– Add lemon zest to the honey butter for citrus brightness
– Mix in fresh minced garlic
– Try it with pasta on the side

Serving Suggestions

– Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
– Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving
– Sprinkle with extra Cajun seasoning for more heat

Remember, the key to perfect grilled salmon is not overcooking it! Keep an eye on your fillets and pull them off when they’re just done – they’ll continue cooking slightly from residual heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You bet! The Cajun seasoning can be made weeks in advance – I keep a jar in my spice cabinet for busy weeknights. The honey butter can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before using.

What type of salmon works best?

I prefer wild-caught salmon for its rich flavor, but farm-raised works beautifully too! Look for fillets that are similar in thickness so they cook evenly. When I’m serving this alongside my hearty ranch potatoes, I opt for center-cut pieces around 6 ounces each.

Help! My salmon is sticking to the grill!

Been there! Here’s my foolproof method: First, make sure your grill is properly preheated. Next, ensure your salmon is patted completely dry and well-oiled. If you’re still worried, you can place the salmon on a piece of foil with holes poked in it – you’ll still get that lovely grilled flavor without the stress.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! The beauty of making your own Cajun seasoning is that you’re in control. For milder heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. Want it spicier? Add an extra pinch of cayenne or some red pepper flakes. Start conservative – you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away!

Temperature Matters: Let your salmon sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook more evenly and prevents the dreaded dry edges with raw center situation.

Storage Tips:
– Leftover salmon keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days
– Store extra Cajun seasoning in a sealed jar for up to 6 months
– Honey butter can be frozen for up to 3 months

My Personal Tips:
I love making extra honey butter to keep on hand – it’s amazing on cornbread, roasted vegetables, or even spread on toast! And don’t toss those salmon skin pieces if they fall off – they get wonderfully crispy on the grill and make a delicious cook’s treat.

Remember, grilling should be fun! Don’t stress if your first few fillets aren’t perfect – practice makes progress, and even “imperfect” salmon is still mighty tasty with this honey butter topping!

CAJUN GRILLED SALMON

Why You’ll Go Crazy for This Recipe

Ingredients Overview

Success Tips & Tricks