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Salmon Pasta

Salmon Pasta

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Salmon Pasta is a creamy, savory, and comforting dish that pairs the rich flavor of salmon with tender pasta and a luscious sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The blend of garlic, herbs, and lemon enhances the salmon beautifully, making every bite memorable.

ingredients

Salmon Pasta this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon filletspasta (like fettuccine, linguine, or penne)olive oilgarlicshallotheavy creamparmesan cheeselemon juicefresh dill or parsleyred pepper flakes (optional)saltblack pepper

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic and shallot until fragrant and translucent.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese and lemon juice, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.

Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and return it to the skillet. Stir gently to coat with sauce.

Add the drained pasta to the pan, tossing to combine. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill or parsley and red pepper flakes if using.

Serve immediately with extra parmesan and lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use smoked salmon for a deeper, savory flavor.

Add spinach or peas for extra greens and color.

Substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit dietary needs.

Use capers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Salmon Pasta

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon?

Yes, canned salmon works in a pinch, though fresh or cooked fillets offer better texture.

What pasta works best with salmon?

Fettuccine, linguine, or short pasta like penne all pair well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast for a similar creamy effect.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque pink center.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but store it separately and reheat gently before mixing with pasta and salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely—just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What herbs go well with salmon pasta?

Dill, parsley, basil, or tarragon all complement the dish.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine adds a delicious depth—add before the cream and simmer to reduce.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, especially if you skip the red pepper flakes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale up ingredients proportionally and use a larger pan.

Conclusion

Salmon Pasta is the perfect combination of ease and elegance, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special dinners. With creamy, herbed sauce and flaky salmon tossed through perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that always impresses. Try it once, and it might become your go-to comfort meal.

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Salmon Pasta

Salmon Pasta

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
Print Recipe

Description

A creamy and flavorful salmon pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick yet elegant meal. Packed with tender salmon, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic cream sauce.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and flake into large chunks.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the cream and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Return the flaked salmon to the skillet and stir gently to coat in the sauce.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use smoked salmon for a different flavor profile.
  • Substitute cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • Add spinach or peas for extra nutrition.