If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, packs a satisfying crunch, and shines with freshness, then this Cajun Salmon Sliders with Remoulade Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. These sliders combine perfectly seasoned, flaky salmon with a zesty, creamy remoulade sauce and crispy onion rings, all nestled inside soft slider buns and peppery arugula. It’s a vibrant, mouthwatering little sandwich that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, perfect for casual gatherings or an impressive weeknight treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list—each element in this recipe is straightforward and plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and texture. From the fresh salmon to the aromatic herbs and spices, every bite is loaded with layers of flavor and freshness.
- Salmon (1-½ lbs, skin removed): The star protein—rich, flaky, and full of healthy oils that hold up well to bold seasoning.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning to bring out the natural flavor of the salmon and balance the spices.
- Fresh cracked pepper: Adds a subtle heat and aromatic fragrance that complements the Cajun seasoning.
- Cajun seasoning: A blend of spices that infuses the salmon with classic Louisiana flair.
- Old Bay seafood seasoning: Adds complexity and a hint of umami seafood flavor, elevating the salmon even further.
- Arugula leaves: Peppery greens that give a fresh, slightly bitter crunch to offset the richness of the fish and sauce.
- Slider buns: Soft, tender buns that perfectly cradle all the ingredients without overpowering them.
- Alexia Brand Onion Rings (1 per slider): Crispy and sweet, these add an irresistible crunch and textural contrast.
- Mayonnaise (1 cup): The creamy base for the remoulade sauce bringing smoothness and richness.
- Finely chopped green onion (¼ cup): Adds a fresh, sharp bite to the sauce.
- Chopped garlic (2 tsp): Gives depth and a touch of pungency to the remoulade.
- Prepared horseradish (1 Tbs): Kicks up the heat with a lively bite.
- German whole-grain mustard (2 Tbs): Offers tang and lovely texture with visible seeds.
- Yellow mustard (3 tsp): Adds classic mustard tang for balance.
- Ketchup (3 Tbs): Sweetness and acidity round out the remoulade flavors.
- Hot sauce (1 tsp): Provides a subtle smoky heat.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Rounds out umami, adding savory complexity.
- Pinch kosher salt, ½ tsp cayenne pepper, ½ tsp Cajun seasoning: These small touches intensify the remoulade’s spice and seasoning.
- Fresh cilantro leaves (1 tsp, minced): Bright herbal note that livens up the sauce.
- Finely diced fresh jalapeno (1 tsp): Adds a bit of fresh heat and crunch inside the remoulade.
How to Make Cajun Salmon Sliders with Remoulade Recipe
Step 1: Make the Remoulade Sauce
Start by combining all the remoulade ingredients in a bowl: mayonnaise, green onion, garlic, horseradish, both mustards, ketchup, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, cayenne, Cajun seasoning, cilantro, and jalapeno. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended. Then, pop it into the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors mingle and deepen, giving you a luscious sauce that packs a punch while complementing the salmon perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare and Season the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the skinless salmon into square portions that will fit neatly on your slider buns. Season each piece generously with kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, Old Bay seasoning, and Cajun seasoning, ensuring each bite will be bursting with flavor. Place the salmon pieces on a rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet to allow even cooking and moisture to escape.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon and Onion Rings
Place the baking sheet with the seasoned salmon and the package of Alexia Brand onion rings in the oven. Bake the salmon for about 10 minutes or until just cooked through and flaky. The onion rings should be baked according to their package instructions simultaneously, so you’ll have both elements perfectly hot and crispy at the same time.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Once your salmon and onion rings are ready, it’s time to build these beauties. Spread some of the chilled remoulade sauce on the bottom slider bun, then layer with fresh arugula leaves for a peppery crunch. Add a juicy piece of the baked salmon, a generous dollop of remoulade, and top it with a crispy onion ring. Before placing the top bun, spread a little more remoulade on it to help hold everything together, adding that saucy goodness with every bite.
How to Serve Cajun Salmon Sliders with Remoulade Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves, extra diced jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime juice on top of the sliders add brightness and an extra hint of herbal freshness. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or additional Cajun seasoning can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor, inviting your guests to dive in with their eyes and taste buds.
Side Dishes
These sliders pair wonderfully with cool, crisp sides like a simple mixed greens salad, tangy coleslaw, or even roasted sweet potato fries. The freshness of the sides contrasts beautifully with the rich and spicy flavors of the salmon sliders, creating a well-rounded meal perfect for any occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, serve a row of these sliders with mini dipping bowls of extra remoulade sauce and a variety of pickled vegetables on the side. Wrapping each slider in parchment paper tied with kitchen twine adds a rustic yet charming touch, perfect for casual open-house events or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the sliders disassembled in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the salmon, remoulade sauce, and onion rings separate to maintain their textures. This way, your sliders will stay fresh and enjoyable for up to two days.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze fully assembled sliders, as the buns can become soggy and the onion rings lose their crunch. However, you can freeze the seasoned, raw salmon portions tightly wrapped on a tray to keep their freshness for up to one month. Thaw overnight before baking.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the salmon in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to warm through without drying it out. Warm the onion rings separately in a toaster oven to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture and flavors of your Cajun Salmon Sliders with Remoulade Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon is excellent for its richness and texture, you can substitute with other firm, flaky fish like cod or halibut. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is the remoulade sauce very spicy?
The remoulade delivers a balanced kick with a nice blend of heat from the horseradish, cayenne, and jalapeno but isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the amounts of hot sauce or jalapeno to suit your heat preference.
Can I make the sliders gluten-free?
Certainly! Swap the regular slider buns for gluten-free ones, and check the ingredients on your Cajun seasoning and onion rings to ensure they are gluten-free. You can also substitute onion rings with gluten-free crispy alternatives or omit them if preferred.
How do I get the salmon perfectly cooked?
Baking at 400°F for about 10 minutes usually yields a tender, flaky salmon that’s cooked through but still juicy. Watch closely to avoid overcooking; the salmon should flake easily but remain moist.
What’s the secret to crispy onion rings in this recipe?
Following the package instructions for baking is key, but giving your oven a good preheat and avoiding overcrowding the pan ensures even cooking. For extra crispiness, consider a quick broil for the last minute, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Salmon Sliders with Remoulade Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you bite into it. The exciting combination of spice, creamy sauce, fresh greens, and crispy onion rings makes these sliders irresistible and endlessly enjoyable. Whether you’re cooking for friends or treating yourself, don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it just might become your new favorite go-to!
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Cajun Salmon Sliders with Remoulade Recipe
These Cajun Salmon Sliders with Remoulade combine perfectly seasoned baked salmon fillets with crispy onion rings, fresh arugula, and a spicy, tangy remoulade sauce. Served on slider buns, they make an irresistible appetizer or light meal bursting with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
Ingredients
For the Salmon Sliders
- 1–½ lbs salmon (skin removed)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Old Bay seafood seasoning, to taste
- Arugula leaves, for layering
- Slider buns (5-6 buns)
- Alexia Brand Onion Rings (1 per slider)
For the Remoulade Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onion
- 2 tsp chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 2 tbsp German whole-grain mustard
- 3 tsp yellow mustard
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Pinch kosher salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp fresh cilantro leaves, minced
- 1 tsp finely diced fresh jalapeno
Instructions
- Prepare the Remoulade: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, finely chopped green onion, chopped garlic, horseradish, German whole-grain mustard, yellow mustard, ketchup, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, Cajun seasoning, minced cilantro leaves, and finely diced jalapeno. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the salmon and onion rings.
- Season the Salmon: Cut the salmon into square portions sized to fit your slider buns. Season each piece generously with kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, Old Bay seafood seasoning, and Cajun seasoning. Place the seasoned salmon pieces on a rack set over a rimmed baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Salmon and Onion Rings: Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Simultaneously, bake the onion rings according to the package instructions until crispy.
- Assemble the Sliders: On the bottom half of each slider bun, layer fresh arugula leaves followed by a piece of baked salmon. Add a generous spoonful of remoulade sauce on top of the salmon, then place a crispy onion ring over the sauce. Spread some remoulade on the top bun as well to help hold the slider together, then close the slider. Serve immediately.
Notes
- To keep the salmon moist, avoid overbaking; check for doneness at 10 minutes.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and jalapeno in the remoulade.
- Use fresh arugula for a peppery bite; baby spinach can be substituted if desired.
- The remoulade sauce can be made a day ahead to deepen the flavors.
- Slider buns can be lightly toasted if preferred for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
