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Creamy Nordic-inspired puffin bird recipe with salmon and shrimp cooked in a smoky garlic herb sauce.

Puffin bird recipe

This Puffin Bird Recipe is a rich, smoky, and creamy Nordic-inspired seafood dish made with salmon, shrimp, garlic, herbs, and a buttery cream sauce. Inspired by traditional coastal island flavors, this modern puffin-style recipe uses sustainable ingredients while delivering restaurant-quality taste at home. Perfect for seafood lovers looking for a unique gourmet dinner idea.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Nordic-Inspired, Scandinavian, Seafood
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Seafood
  • 500 g salmon fillets, cut into cubes
  • 250 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter
Aromatics & Seasoning
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp rosemary
  • ½ tsp chili flakes
Cream Sauce
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Juice of 1 lemon
Garnish
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Fresh dill (optional)
  • Extra black pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Season the Seafood

    Pat the salmon dry using paper towels and cut it into medium-sized cubes. Place the salmon and shrimp into a mixing bowl.
    Season with:
    Mix gently until evenly coated. Let the seafood marinate for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
    smoked paprikasea saltblack pepperthymerosemary

  2. Cook the Aromatics

    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    This aromatic base creates the signature smoky Nordic-style flavor.

  3. Sear the Salmon

    Place the salmon pieces into the hot skillet.
    Cook for:
    The salmon should develop a golden crust while remaining tender inside.
    Remove from the skillet and set aside.
    3–4 minutes on the first side3 minutes on the other side

  4. Cook the Shrimp

    Add shrimp to the same skillet and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden.
    Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp juicy.

  5. Make the Cream Sauce

    Reduce heat to low.
    Add:
    Stir continuously and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
    Return the salmon to the skillet and coat everything in the creamy sauce.
    heavy creamlemon juicechili flakes

  6. Garnish and Serve

    Sprinkle fresh parsley and optional dill on top.
    Serve immediately with:
    roasted potatoesbutter ricecrusty breadNordic rye breadfresh salad

Notes

Notes

  • Use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture.
  • Smoked paprika gives the dish its signature rustic taste.
  • Do not boil the cream sauce or it may separate.
  • You can substitute salmon with cod, tuna, or chicken thighs.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add smoked sea salt.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 165mg
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
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