If you’re craving a healthy dinner that feels restaurant‑worthy but still comes together in under 30 minutes, this Baked Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Sauce is exactly what you need. Tender salmon fillets are seasoned with bold Cajun spices, then baked until flaky and golden, while a cool, creamy avocado‑lime sauce adds freshness and richness without any heavy cream. The contrast between the smoky, slightly spicy salmon and the bright, tangy sauce makes every bite incredibly satisfying, and the whole meal feels indulgent yet light.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a light lunch you can pack and reheat. Serve the salmon over rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad, and you’ve got a balanced plate that’s high in protein and healthy fats. The avocado sauce is so good you’ll want to drizzle it over everything—grilled chicken, tacos, roasted vegetables, or even as a dip for chips.
Complete Ingredient List (Serves 4)
This version is pantry‑friendly and easy to scale up for leftovers or a crowd.
For the Baked Cajun Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store‑bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Avocado Lime Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons water or milk, as needed for consistency
For Serving (Optional)
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
- Roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini)
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Preheat and Prep the Salmon
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the baking sheet.
Season the Salmon
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush or spoon the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, making sure they’re well coated. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top.
Bake the Salmon
Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillets; thicker cuts may need an extra 2–3 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes.
Make the Avocado Lime Sauce
While the salmon bakes, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor. Add the Greek yogurt or sour cream, lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and cilantro (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy, adding water or milk a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Serve
Plate the baked Cajun salmon over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens. Drizzle the avocado lime sauce over the top and garnish with extra cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Baked Cajun Salmon
Use skin‑on salmon for extra moisture and crispiness; the skin can be easily removed after cooking if you prefer. For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a “mild” blend. Make a bigger batch of the avocado sauce and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent browning. For meal prep, cook the salmon and sauce, then store them separately from the rice and veggies so everything stays fresh and crisp.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)
This dish is rich in protein from the salmon and healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil. The Greek yogurt adds calcium and a creamy texture without excess fat. You can lighten it by using less oil, more vegetables, or a lighter yogurt alternative.
Why This Works So Well for TikTok and Pinterest
The Baked Cajun Salmon with Avocado Lime Sauce is incredibly photogenic: golden salmon fillets glistening with seasoning, topped with bright green sauce and fresh herbs, makes it pop on camera. The 25‑minute timeline is perfect for short‑form video, and the “healthy, restaurant‑style at home” hook resonates with busy home cooks. For Pinterest, focus on overhead shots of the plate with the sauce drizzled over the salmon and a sprinkle of cilantro, and keep the background simple so the colors stand out.
Serve this dish with extra lime wedges and a side of roasted vegetables. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this easy, flavorful dinner has become such a favorite for quick weeknight meals and meal prep.