Creamy Salmon Pasta
This creamy salmon pasta is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender salmon fillets, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic-parmesan sauce. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, it’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and healthy fats.
Equipment
- Large Pot – For boiling the pasta.
- Colander – To drain the pasta.
- Large Skillet or Pan – For cooking the salmon and making the creamy sauce.
- Tongs or Pasta Spoon – To toss and mix the pasta with the sauce.
- Spatula or Fish Turner – To flip and flake the salmon.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Grater or Zester – For grating Parmesan and zesting lemon.
- Knife & Cutting Board – To chop garlic, parsley, and prepare salmon.
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225g pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 salmon fillets about 6 oz each, skin removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup 240ml heavy cream
- ½ cup 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup 120ml chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Season salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp 145°F (63°C)).
- Remove from pan, flake with a fork, and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter.
- Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and let it reduce slightly (1-2 minutes).
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring until smooth.
- Combine & Serve:
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, coating evenly.
- Add flaked salmon, gently stirring to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Use smoked salmon instead of fresh for a different flavor profile.
Make it lighter by substituting half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition.
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Make it lighter by substituting half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition.
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.