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Cajun Salmon & Garlic Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Creamy Vegetables

A delightful Cajun-inspired dish featuring seared salmon, garlic shrimp, creamy mashed potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon and Shrimp
  • 2 fillets salmon fillets (6–8 oz each) Look for fresh, firm fillets.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined Choose the largest shrimp available.
  • 1 tbsp butter
For the Mashed Potatoes
  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the 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
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

Preparation of Mashed Potatoes
  1. Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk until smooth.
Cooking the Creamy Vegetables
  1. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add broccoli and zucchini, cooking until tender, around 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Seasoning & Searing the Salmon
  1. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil, then coat them with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Sear in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
Cooking the Garlic Shrimp
  1. In a separate skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add the shrimp, seasoning with paprika, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Assembling & Serving
  1. Layer the creamy mashed potatoes on a plate, topping them with the seared salmon and garlic shrimp.
  2. Serve the creamy vegetables on the side, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Notes

This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.