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Cajun Honey Butter Grilled Salmon Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

This Cajun Honey Butter Grilled Salmon recipe features perfectly grilled salmon fillets topped with a flavorful and creamy Cajun-spiced honey butter. The seasoning blend adds a spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet kick, making it an easy yet gourmet seafood dish that can be ready in just 20 minutes. Ideal for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this dish pairs well with fresh herbs and simple sides.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for rubbing (such as olive oil or vegetable oil)

Cajun Honey Butter

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked paprika, if available)
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper (or 1/2 teaspoon finely ground black pepper)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Make Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, stir together garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined. This creates the distinctive Cajun spice blend that flavors the butter and salmon.
  2. Prepare Cajun Honey Butter: Using an electric hand mixer, whip the softened unsalted butter for about 2 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. Then add the honey and 1 tablespoon of the prepared Cajun seasoning, mixing until smooth. The remaining seasoning can be stored airtight for up to three months.
  3. Season Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly on both sides with paper towels to ensure even cooking and browning. Rub a light coat of oil all over the fillets, then season them with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
  4. Grill Salmon: Preheat your outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. Avoid moving the salmon too soon to get nice grill marks.
  5. Add Cajun Honey Butter: Once cooked, turn off the grill or stove. Place a generous spoonful of the Cajun honey butter on top of each salmon fillet, allowing it to melt for about 30 seconds. Use the back of a spoon to carefully spread the melted butter evenly over the surface.
  6. Butter Both Sides: Flip the salmon fillets and repeat by adding butter and spreading it on the other side to enhance flavor and juiciness.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley before serving immediately for a fresh herbal note. Serve hot for best taste.

Notes

  • Use smoked paprika if available for a deeper smoky flavor.
  • Butter should be soft but not melted to whip properly.
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil works well to prevent sticking on the grill.
  • The Cajun spice mixture can be stored airtight and used later in other dishes.
  • Salmon fillets should be of uniform thickness for even cooking.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to preference.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American