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Cajun Salmon & Garlic Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Creamy Vegetables

A vibrant Cajun dish featuring seared salmon, succulent garlic shrimp, creamy mashed potatoes, and colorful vegetables that deliver great flavor without the fuss.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Seafood
  • 2 fillets salmon fillets (6–8 oz each) Opt for fresh salmon for better flavor.
  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined Choose fresh shrimp for best results.
Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika For additional flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes For garnish.
Mashed Potatoes
  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup milk Adjust for creaminess.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Vegetables
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups zucchini slices
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, around 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Cook the Creamy Vegetables
  1. In a skillet, melt one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  2. Toss in broccoli and zucchini, cooking until tender and vibrant. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until it bubbles slightly.
Season & Sear the Salmon
  1. Rub salmon fillets with olive oil and season generously with spices. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high and sear the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Cook the Garlic Shrimp
  1. In another skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt, cooking until shrimp turns pink, about 2-3 minutes.
Assemble & Serve
  1. On a plate, layer mashed potatoes, followed by seared salmon and garlic shrimp. Serve creamy vegetables on the side. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or plant-based alternatives. Store leftovers in airtight containers; they keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.