Creamy Salmon Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender salmon with a creamy, garlicky sauce and pasta. This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner and comes together quickly, making it a great choice for a weeknight meal or special occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (around 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Salmon:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the salmon fillets in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
- Remove the salmon from the skillet, flake it into large pieces, and set it aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the Salmon:
- Gently fold the flaked salmon into the pasta and sauce, being careful not to break up the salmon too much.
- Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve:
- Serve the creamy salmon pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Optionally, add a wedge of lemon for a burst of fresh citrus on top.
Tips:
- Substitute for Salmon: You can substitute the salmon with other fish like trout, cod, or even shrimp.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Add Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
This Creamy Salmon Pasta is a rich, satisfying meal that brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy!