Cajun Honey Butter Salmon

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets, salted and seasoned to taste

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

1/3 cup honey

2 tablespoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 teaspoons paprika (use 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)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:

In a bowl, mix together the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper. Set aside.

Make the Cajun Honey Butter:

Using an electric hand mixer, beat the butter for about 2 minutes until it is light and fluffy. Add the honey and blend until smooth.

Add 1 tablespoon of the prepared Cajun seasoning to the honey butter mixture and blend well. Store the remaining seasoning in an airtight container for future use (up to 3 months).

Prepare the Salmon:

Pat the salmon fillets dry on all sides using a paper towel. Rub the fillets with a bit of oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Grill the Salmon:

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon fillets for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque in the center and have a nice crust on the outside.

Add Cajun Honey Butter:

Once the salmon is cooked, turn off the grill (or stove if you’re using a grill pan). Immediately spread a generous amount of Cajun Honey Butter over each salmon fillet. Allow the butter to melt for about 30 seconds, then use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly over the salmon. Flip the salmon over and repeat on the other side.

Serve:

Garnish the salmon with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!