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Low Carb Cajun Salmon - Bold Flavor, Simple Prep

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for finishing)
  • 1 lemon, halved (for juice and wedges)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Steamed or roasted asparagus
  • Cauliflower rice with lime and cilantro
  • Mixed greens with olive oil and vinegar

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon dry. Use paper towels to remove surface moisture. Dry fish sears better and gives you that crisp crust.
  2. Mix the Cajun spice blend. Combine all spices in a small bowl. Taste a pinch and adjust cayenne or salt to your liking.
  3. Season the salmon. Rub each fillet with olive oil. Sprinkle the Cajun mix evenly over the flesh side, pressing lightly so it adheres. Season the skin with a bit of salt and pepper.
  4. Preheat the pan. Heat a large skillet over medium-high until hot. Add 1–2 tablespoons olive oil. A cast-iron or stainless-steel pan works best for searing.
  5. Sear skin-side down. Place the salmon in the pan skin-side down. Press gently with a spatula for the first 10–15 seconds to prevent curling. Cook 4–6 minutes, depending on thickness, until the skin is crisp and the fillet is mostly opaque.
  6. Flip and finish. Flip the salmon and cook 1–2 minutes more until it reaches your preferred doneness. For medium, aim for 125–130°F in the thickest part.
  7. Optional butter baste. Reduce heat to low, add the butter, and spoon it over the tops for 20–30 seconds. This softens the spice heat and adds richness.
  8. Add lemon. Squeeze fresh lemon over the salmon right off the heat. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
  9. Serve. Plate with your favorite low-carb sides and an extra lemon wedge.