Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub them evenly with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and salt.
2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet used for the salmon, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
2. Deglaze the Pan: Add the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Add the Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Cajun cream sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
2. Add Cherry Tomatoes (Optional): Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness and color.

Step 5: Serve the Dish

1. Plate the Pasta: Divide the creamy Cajun pasta among serving plates.
2. Top with Salmon: Place a seared salmon fillet on top of each plate of pasta.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.