Red Lobster New Orleans Salmon Recipe

There’s something special about Red Lobster’s New Orleans Salmon that keeps us seafood lovers coming back for more!

This dish combines blackened Atlantic salmon with shrimp in a rich Cajun butter sauce, topped with a fresh tomato-cilantro relish.

Some quick up-front tips:

Make sure to season the salmon well before cooking to get that perfect crisp and flavor.

Cook the salmon fillets until they’re perfectly browned, which usually takes around 7-8 minutes.

And don’t forget to serve it with lemon and your choice of two sides for a complete meal you won’t forget!

How to Make Red Lobster New Orleans Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1–2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp Topping and Cream Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken or seafood broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the Salmon:

• Rub each salmon fillet with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil or butter until hot.
• Sear the salmon fillets for about 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2:

Make the Shrimp and Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil. Once melted, add shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2–3 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.
• Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
• Add lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3:

Assemble and Serve:

• Place the cooked shrimp on top of each salmon fillet.
• Drizzle the cream sauce over the salmon and shrimp.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley.

Serve Immediately:

• Pair with sides like seasoned rice or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Salmon

Always go for fresh fillets if possible, as this will make the dish even more flavorful and moist when cooked.

Adjusting Spice Levels

If you love extra spice, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or even a dash of hot sauce for that extra kick.

Alternative Sweeteners

If you don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup or agave nectar can be fantastic alternatives to use in this dish.

Cooking the Salmon

Remember to keep an eye on the salmon while it’s cooking, because it can easily overcook if left unattended.

Cooking it to the perfect point ensures the texture is moist yet firm.

Adding Garnishes

You can top the salmon with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to enhance the flavors beautifully.

What to Serve with Red Lobster New Orleans Salmon

Garlicky Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with creamy and buttery mashed potatoes as a side dish.

Infuse them with garlic for that extra kick, and you’ll love how they balance the rich flavors of the salmon.

Give them a try; they’re perfect for soaking up the Cajun butter sauce!

Sauteed Asparagus with Lemon

Add a bright and fresh touch to your meal with sauteed asparagus.

A simple squeeze of lemon brings a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices.

Just cook them until tender, and you’ve got a fantastic side.

Moroccan Couscous Salad

Spice up your salmon dinner with a Moroccan-inspired couscous salad.

Toss in some dried fruits like apricots and raisins for a sweet contrast, and maybe a handful of toasted almonds for crunch.

This vibrant dish adds an unexpected yet delightful twist to your meal.

Sweet Potato Fries

You can add a modern flair with some sweet potato fries.

Their natural sweetness and crispiness are a fun contrast to the savory salmon.

Make them in the oven or air fryer for a healthier option.

Jalapeño Cornbread

Finally, bring a bit of Southern flair to your meal with jalapeño cornbread.

The spicy kick fits right in with Cajun flavors, and the sweetness of the corn balances it all out.

It’s a warm and tasty companion to your New Orleans salmon.

Variations and Substitutions

Cajun vs. Blackening Seasoning

You can experiment with either Cajun or Blackening seasoning for different flavor profiles.

Both give a spicy edge, but Cajun can be a bit more complex with hints of garlic and herbs.

Switching them up provides a fun twist!

Butter Alternatives

If you’re watching your dairy intake, using olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter is a fantastic option.

These oils add a delicate richness and pair wonderfully with the salmon.

Salmon Type

Feel like changing it up? Try sockeye or king salmon instead of Atlantic.

Each type has a distinct flavor and texture, making it a unique experience every time.

Accompaniments

Instead of tomatoes and cilantro, try a refreshing mango salsa or a tangy avocado spread.

These additions bring out different flavors and balance the spiciness beautifully.

How to Store Leftover Red Lobster New Orleans Salmon

You’ll want to properly store any leftover Red Lobster New Orleans Salmon to savor later!

Use an Airtight Container

Place the salmon in an airtight container, making sure to separate it from any sauce or sides.

This will help maintain the flavors and textures without letting them mingle too much over time.

Keep it as fresh as possible!

Refrigeration Tips

Place the container in the fridge within two hours of cooking to maintain its best quality.

This helps to prevent any bacteria from growing on your delicious dish.

You can store it here for up to three days.

Freezing Suggestions

If you don’t plan on eating your leftovers soon, consider freezing them.

Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.

This can keep your salmon enjoyable for up to three months!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Salmon

When making Red Lobster New Orleans Salmon, it’s easy to overcook the salmon, leaving it dry and chewy.

You want your salmon tender and moist, so keep a close eye on your timing.

Aim for 7 to 8 minutes for the perfect texture.

Inadequate Seasoning

Inadequate seasoning can leave your dish bland and without that vibrant Louisiana flavor.

Don’t be shy with the cajun spices!

Give the salmon a generous coating to really make it pop.

Neglecting the Sauce

The sauce is a key element that brings everything together, and it’s essential not to overlook it.

Make sure you prepare enough cajun butter sauce to generously coat the salmon.

A well-prepared sauce can elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness!