Salmon and Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that feels both comforting and gourmet, a salmon and pasta recipe is the perfect choice.

This dish combines tender flakes of salmon with creamy pasta, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or even special occasions.

Why Choose Salmon and Pasta?

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients, while pasta adds a satisfying base that makes the dish filling.

Together, they create a balanced meal that is not only delicious but also nutritious.

This recipe is flexible — you can prepare it with a creamy sauce, a light olive oil base, or even a tomato-based twist depending on your preference.

Ingredients

Here’s a simple list of what you’ll need:

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

  • 300g (10 oz) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work well)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Juice of half a lemon

  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, or thyme)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.

Remove from the pan, let cool slightly, then flake into chunks.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.

Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese.

Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated.

Gently fold in the flaked salmon pieces.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this salmon and pasta recipe with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables.

  • A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

  • For extra freshness, garnish with lemon zest or cherry tomatoes.

Variations

Lighter version: Use olive oil and lemon juice instead of cream for a Mediterranean-style pasta.

Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce.

Tomato base: Replace cream with crushed tomatoes for a tangy twist.

Salmon and Pasta Recipe

A creamy and flavorful salmon and pasta recipe that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

  • 2 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
  • 300 g 10 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for lighter option
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs basil, oregano, thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
  1. Boil a large pot of water.
  2. Add salt.
  3. Put pasta in the pot.
  4. Cook until tender but firm.
  5. Save half a cup of pasta water.
  6. Drain pasta and set aside.
Step 2 – Cook the Salmon
  1. Heat olive oil in a pan.
  2. Season salmon with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  3. Place salmon in the pan.
  4. Cook 3–4 minutes on each side.
  5. Take salmon out.
  6. Let it cool.
  7. Break into chunks.
Step 3 – Make the Sauce
  1. Add olive oil to the pan.
  2. Cook garlic and onion until soft.
  3. Pour in cream.
  4. Add Parmesan cheese.
  5. Stir well.
  6. Add herbs, salt, and pepper.
  7. Add pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 4 – Mix and Serve
  1. Put pasta in the sauce.
  2. Stir gently.
  3. Add salmon chunks.
  4. Mix lightly.
  5. Sprinkle parsley and Parmesan on top.

This salmon and pasta recipe is quick, flavorful, and versatile, making it a dish you’ll want to cook again and again.

Whether you’re making dinner for the family or preparing a romantic meal, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with minimal effort.

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