Salmon Pasta Recipe – Easy & Creamy Dish Ready in 30 Minutes

A salmon pasta recipe is a delightful combination of rich, tender salmon and perfectly cooked pasta, tossed in a flavorful sauce that can range from creamy and indulgent to light and zesty. This salmon pasta recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend meal.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to elevate your pasta game, this salmon pasta recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. With its simple ingredients and restaurant-quality flavors, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is not only delicious but also one of the healthiest proteins you can add to your diet. Here’s why:

Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and boosts brain function.

High in Protein: Essential for muscle growth and overall body function.

Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals: Provides vitamin D, B12, and selenium, which are crucial for immune health and energy production.

Good for Skin and Hair: The natural oils in salmon help maintain healthy skin and hair.

Overview of the Recipe

This designed to be simple yet packed with flavor. Whether you choose a creamy garlic sauce, a light lemon-butter drizzle, or a spicy tomato-based twist, this dish is adaptable to your personal taste.

What Makes This Recipe Special?
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
Nutritious & Balanced – A great mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbs.
Customizable – Works with different sauces, pasta types, and spice levels.

Ingredients for the Perfect Salmon Pasta

Creating the perfect salmon pasta starts with choosing high-quality ingredients. The right selection of pasta, fresh salmon, and complementary seasonings will enhance the flavors and make your dish stand out. Below is a breakdown of everything you need to make a delicious and well-balanced salmon pasta.

1. Choosing the Best Salmon

Salmon is the star ingredient of this dish, so selecting the right type is crucial. Here are the best options:

Fresh Wild-Caught Salmon: Offers a rich, deep flavor and is packed with omega-3s. Preferred types include Sockeye, Coho, or King Salmon.

Farm-Raised Salmon: More affordable and has a milder taste. Works well in creamy-based sauces.

Smoked Salmon: Great for a unique twist, especially for a no-cook pasta dish.

Canned Salmon: A budget-friendly alternative that still provides great taste and nutrition.

Pro Tip: Always remove the skin before adding salmon to pasta unless you enjoy a crispy texture.

2. Best Pasta Types for Salmon Pasta

The pasta you choose can significantly impact the dish’s overall texture and how well it holds the sauce. Here are some great options:

Long Pasta:

Spaghetti & Linguine – Classic choices for a smooth, elegant dish.

Fettuccine & Tagliatelle – Perfect for creamy sauces as they hold the sauce well.

Short Pasta:

Penne & Rigatoni – Ideal for chunky salmon pieces, allowing them to nestle in the tube-shaped pasta.

Farfalle (Bowtie Pasta) – Adds a fun texture and works well with both creamy and light sauces.

Healthy Alternatives:

Whole Wheat Pasta – Provides extra fiber and a nuttier flavor.

Gluten-Free Pasta – Made from chickpeas, lentils, or rice for those with gluten sensitivity.

Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash – A low-carb option for a lighter meal.

Pro Tip: Cook pasta al dente (firm to the bite) to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

3. Essential Seasonings and Herbs

A well-seasoned dish is the key to bringing out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Seasonings:

Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of salmon.

Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic – Adds depth and a wonderful aroma.

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For a slight kick of heat.

Fresh Herbs:

Parsley or Basil – Brings freshness and color to the dish.

Dill – Pairs beautifully with salmon for a classic flavor combination.

Chives – Adds a mild onion-like taste.

Citrus and Acids:

Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens up the dish and cuts through richness.

White Wine or Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a subtle tangy depth.

Pro Tip: Fresh herbs and citrus zest should be added at the end to maintain their brightness and aroma.

4. Best Sauces for Salmon Pasta

The sauce you choose will define the dish’s overall taste and texture. Here are some fantastic options:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce (Classic & Indulgent)

Heavy cream or half-and-half
Butter
Garlic
Parmesan cheese
Lemon juice

Best For: A rich, comforting meal with a velvety texture.

Lemon Butter Sauce (Light & Fresh)

Butter
Garlic
Fresh lemon juice & zest
Olive oil
White wine (optional)

Best For: A refreshing, tangy pasta that highlights the salmon’s natural flavor.

Spicy Tomato Basil Sauce (Bold & Zesty)

Crushed tomatoes
Garlic & onion
Fresh basil
Red pepper flakes
Olive oil

Best For: Those who love a bit of heat and tanginess in their pasta.

Dairy-Free & Healthy Avocado Sauce

Blended avocado
Lemon juice
Garlic
Olive oil
Fresh basil

Best For: A creamy, nutrient-dense alternative without dairy.

5. Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor & Texture

To make your salmon pasta even more delicious, consider adding:

Vegetables:

Spinach or Kale – Adds extra nutrients and a pop of green.

Cherry Tomatoes – Bursts of juicy sweetness.

Mushrooms – Earthy and meaty, great for umami flavor.

Asparagus or Zucchini – Light and crisp, complements salmon well.

Cheese Options:

Parmesan Cheese – Classic and salty, enhances creamy and light sauces.

Goat Cheese or Feta – A tangy contrast to the richness of salmon.

Ricotta Cheese – For a creamy, soft texture.

Crunchy Toppings:

Toasted Pine Nuts or Almonds – Adds a lovely crunch.

Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a slight crispiness when sprinkled on top.

Final Thoughts on Ingredients

The key to an amazing salmon pasta lies in high-quality, fresh ingredients. Whether you prefer a creamy, citrusy, or spicy sauce, you can easily adjust this dish to match your cravings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salmon Pasta

Now that we have the perfect ingredients, it’s time to prepare a delicious salmon pasta dish! Below is a step-by-step guide covering everything from cooking the salmon to preparing the sauce and combining everything into a flavorful masterpiece.

Cooking the Salmon Perfectly

Cooking salmon correctly is crucial to ensuring it stays tender, flaky, and full of flavor. Here are three popular methods to cook salmon for pasta:

Pan-Seared Salmon (Best for a Crispy Texture)

1. Season the salmon with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place the salmon skin-side down (if it has skin) and cook for about 4 minutes.
4. Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–55°C).
5. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before flaking it into bite-sized pieces.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking salmon, as it will turn dry. It should be slightly pink in the center when removed from the heat.

Oven-Baked Salmon (Best for a Hands-Free Approach)

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, garlic, and fresh dill.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Pro Tip: Add a few slices of lemon on top before baking for an extra citrusy aroma.

Poached Salmon (Best for a Soft & Moist Texture)

1. Bring a pot of water or broth to a gentle simmer.
2. Add a bay leaf, garlic, and a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
3. Submerge the salmon and cook for 8-10 minutes over low heat until it turns opaque.

Pro Tip: Poaching is a great option if you want a very delicate, buttery texture in your pasta.

Cooking the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-12 minutes).
3. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water—this helps thicken the sauce later.
4. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking.

Preparing the Sauce

The sauce ties the entire dish together! Below are three fantastic sauce options.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce (Classic & Rich)

1. In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version).
4. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then add ¼ cup of pasta water to help create a silky sauce.

Best For: A luxurious, indulgent pasta dish.

Lemon Butter Sauce (Light & Fresh)

1. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in juice from 1 lemon, zest from ½ lemon, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
4. Pour in ¼ cup of pasta water and mix well.

Best For: A zesty, refreshing pasta that complements salmon’s natural flavor.

Spicy Tomato Basil Sauce (Bold & Flavorful)

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan and sauté 1 chopped onion until translucent.
2. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
3. Stir in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and ½ teaspoon of salt.
4. Let simmer for 10 minutes, then stir in ¼ cup of fresh basil.

Best For: A spicy, hearty pasta dish with a touch of Mediterranean flair.

Combining the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing it gently to coat.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently mix it into the pasta.
4. Let everything heat together for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Pro Tip: Be gentle when mixing salmon into the pasta to keep the pieces intact.

Garnishing and Serving

1. Top the dish with:
   Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
   Chopped parsley or basil
   A drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice
2. Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.

Best Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Noir for an elevated dining experience.

Final Thoughts on Cooking Salmon Pasta

Making salmon pasta at home is easy, rewarding, and incredibly delicious. By following these steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes!

Variations and Customization – How to Make Salmon Pasta Your Own

One of the best things about salmon pasta is its versatility. Whether you prefer it creamy, spicy, dairy-free, or gluten-free, this dish can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs and personal preferences. Below are some delicious variations and customizations to make your salmon pasta truly unique!

1. Creamy vs. Light Salmon Pasta

The sauce is the heart of your dish, and you can choose between creamy indulgence or light and fresh flavors.

Classic Creamy Salmon Pasta (Rich & Comforting)

If you love a luxurious, velvety texture, try these creamy variations:
Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce – Butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan.
Alfredo Sauce – A thicker version using heavy cream and extra cheese.
Creamy Mushroom Sauce – A mix of mushrooms, garlic, and cream for added depth.
Pesto Cream Sauce – Classic basil pesto mixed with heavy cream for a rich twist.

Best For: Those who love indulgent, comforting pasta dishes.

Light & Fresh Salmon Pasta (Healthier & Refreshing)

Prefer something lighter and healthier? These options are for you:
Lemon Butter Sauce – A bright, citrusy option that enhances the salmon’s natural flavor.
Olive Oil & Garlic – A simple, Mediterranean-style pasta with fresh herbs.
White Wine Sauce – A light sauce made with garlic, white wine, and lemon.
Tomato Basil Sauce – A fresh, slightly tangy alternative with juicy tomatoes.

Best For: Those who prefer a lighter, more refreshing pasta dish.

2. Spicy & Bold Variations

Want to add some heat to your salmon pasta? Try these spicy variations:
Cajun-Style Salmon Pasta – Add Cajun seasoning to the salmon and toss with a spicy cream sauce.
Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce – Made with red pepper flakes and crushed tomatoes for a fiery kick.
Chipotle-Lime Salmon Pasta – Blend chipotle peppers with lime juice for a smoky, spicy sauce.
Sriracha Cream Sauce – Mix a touch of Sriracha into the Alfredo or Parmesan sauce.

Best For: Those who enjoy bold, fiery flavors in their pasta dishes.

3. Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options

If you have dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy a delicious salmon pasta. Here’s how:

Gluten-Free Substitutions

Use gluten-free pasta – Made from rice, quinoa, chickpeas, or lentils.
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – A low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
Spaghetti Squash – A naturally gluten-free option with a unique texture.

Dairy-Free Substitutions

Coconut Milk or Cashew Cream – A creamy alternative to dairy-based sauces.
Nutritional Yeast – Adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Avocado-Based Sauce – Blended avocado with garlic and lemon for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.

Best For: Those following a gluten-free, dairy-free, or plant-based diet.

4. Protein Variations: Beyond Salmon

If you love pasta but want to experiment with different proteins, try these tasty alternatives:

Shrimp & Salmon Pasta – A seafood lover’s dream, combining juicy shrimp with salmon.
Chicken & Salmon Combo – Adds variety with grilled or shredded chicken.
Tofu or Tempeh – A great plant-based protein for vegetarians.
Bacon or Pancetta – Adds a crispy, smoky flavor that pairs well with salmon.

Best For: Those looking to experiment with different proteins while keeping the dish flavorful.

5. Vegetable Add-Ins for Extra Nutrition

Want to sneak in some extra veggies? These additions will boost nutrition while enhancing flavor:

Spinach or Kale – Adds fiber, vitamins, and a pop of green.
Cherry Tomatoes – Bursts of juicy sweetness.
Mushrooms – Brings an earthy, umami taste to the dish.
Asparagus or Zucchini – Light, crisp, and complementary to salmon.
Roasted Red Peppers – Adds a slightly smoky and sweet depth.

Best For: Those looking to make their pasta healthier while keeping it delicious.

6. Cold Salmon Pasta Salad (A No-Cook Option)

If you prefer a lighter, refreshing version, try a cold salmon pasta salad!

How to Make It:

Use cooked and chilled pasta (penne, farfalle, or fusilli work best).

Add flaked cooked salmon (or smoked salmon for extra flavor).

Toss with a light dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and herbs.

Mix in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and capers for freshness.

Chill for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Best For: A refreshing, no-cook summer meal.

7. Kid-Friendly Salmon Pasta

If you’re cooking for kids, try these mild, easy-to-eat variations:
Use smaller pasta shapes – Macaroni, shells, or rotini are easier for kids to eat.
Go for a mild creamy sauce – Kids love a simple Alfredo or cheese-based sauce.
Skip strong seasonings – Use mild herbs like basil instead of bold spices.
Add fun toppings – Sprinkle grated cheese or crushed crackers on top for crunch.

Best For: Making salmon pasta kid-friendly and appealing to picky eaters.

Final Thoughts on Customizing Salmon Pasta

The beauty of salmon pasta is its versatility. Whether you prefer it rich and creamy, light and fresh, spicy, gluten-free, or dairy-free, this dish can be easily tailored to your preferences.

Expert Cooking Tips for the Best Salmon Pasta

To take your salmon pasta recipe to the next level, it’s important to use the right techniques. Below are expert cooking tips that will help you achieve perfectly cooked salmon, pasta, and sauce, ensuring a restaurant-quality salmon pasta recipe every time.

Whether you’re making a creamy salmon pasta recipe, a light and zesty variation, or a spicy twist on a classic salmon pasta recipe, these tips will guarantee the best results. Mastering your salmon pasta recipe means understanding how to cook salmon perfectly, achieve the right pasta texture, and balance flavors for a truly delicious dish.

A great salmon pasta recipe starts with high-quality ingredients and proper cooking methods. By following these expert techniques, you can create a salmon pasta recipe that is rich, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you prefer a garlic butter salmon pasta recipe or a simple salmon pasta recipe, these tips will elevate your cooking skills and bring out the best flavors.

1. Cooking Salmon Perfectly

Salmon is the star ingredient, so it’s crucial to cook it just right.

Avoid Overcooking the Salmon

Overcooked salmon becomes dry and tough. To keep it moist and flaky:
Pan-sear for 3-4 minutes per side (for fillets) over medium-high heat.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Poach for 8-10 minutes in broth or water.
Use a meat thermometer and remove the salmon when it reaches 125-130°F (52-55°C).

Pro Tip: Let salmon rest for 5 minutes after cooking—it will continue to cook slightly.

Should You Remove the Skin?

For crispy salmon: Leave the skin on while cooking, then remove it before mixing with pasta.

soft, delicate texture: Remove the skin before cooking.

baked or poached salmon: The skin keeps it moist, so remove it after cooking.

Pro Tip: If using smoked salmon, do NOT cook it—just toss it into the pasta at the end.

2. Achieving the Right Pasta Texture

Cook Pasta Al Dente

Al dente means “to the bite”—firm but not mushy.

How to do it:
Boil pasta in heavily salted water for extra flavor.
Check 1-2 minutes before package instructions say it’s done.
Drain and save 1 cup of pasta water (helps thicken the sauce).

Pro Tip: If pasta sits for too long, drizzle it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Making the Sauce Rich & Flavorful

The sauce should be smooth, well-seasoned, and perfectly balanced.

Use Reserved Pasta Water

The starch from the pasta water makes sauces silky and helps them cling to the pasta.

Add ¼ cup at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Adjust the Thickness

thick? Add pasta water or broth to loosen it.
thin? Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
rich? Add a splash of lemon juice or white wine to brighten it up.

Pro Tip: Add cheese last (after removing from heat) to prevent clumping.

4. Enhancing Flavor Naturally

Use Fresh Herbs & Citrus

Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, dill) make a big difference in taste.

Lemon zest adds brightness without making the sauce watery.

Layer the Flavors

Sauté garlic & onions in butter or olive oil for a deep, aromatic base.

Deglaze the pan with white wine for extra richness.

Toast spices and red pepper flakes in oil before adding liquids for a stronger kick.

Pro Tip: Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their flavor.

5. Keeping Leftovers Fresh & Delicious

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Freezer: Not recommended for creamy sauces (they separate), but tomato-based versions freeze well.

Best Way to Reheat Salmon Pasta

Stovetop (Best Method): Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or broth to revive the sauce.
Microwave (Quick Method): Use low power and stir every 30 seconds to prevent drying out.

Pro Tip: Do NOT reheat salmon pasta more than once—it can make the salmon tough and dry.

6. Wine Pairings for the Perfect Meal

Pairing the right wine with salmon pasta enhances the flavors:

Best Wine Pairings

Creamy Salmon Pasta → Chardonnay (rich, buttery)
Lemon or Light Pasta → Sauvignon Blanc (crisp, citrusy)
Spicy Tomato Pasta → Pinot Noir (light, slightly fruity)

Pro Tip: Avoid heavy red wines—they overpower the delicate flavors of salmon.

Final Thoughts on Expert Cooking Tips

By following these expert cooking techniques, you can achieve a restaurant-quality salmon pasta that is flavorful, balanced, and perfectly cooked every time!

To enhance user experience and encourage further exploration of recipes on Powerful Recipe, here are some strategic internal links:

1. Enhance your protein intake by trying out this Chicken Sausage: A Healthy & Tasty Alternative, a lean and flavorful choice for pasta lovers.
2. For a lighter yet equally nourishing dish, check out this Chicken Vegetable Soup – Easy & Healthy Homemade Recipe that pairs well with a side of garlic bread.
3. If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, you will love this Chicken Spaghetti Recipe – The Best Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food, a rich and satisfying option for any pasta enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does cooked salmon pasta last in the fridge?

Cooked salmon pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The salmon will start to lose its freshness after that, and creamy sauces may begin to separate.

Pro Tip: To keep the pasta from drying out, store it with a little extra sauce or a splash of olive oil before refrigerating.

2. Can you reheat creamy salmon pasta?

Yes, but creamy salmon pasta can become dry or oily if not reheated properly.

Stovetop (Best Method): Heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water to revive the sauce. Stir gently.
Microwave (Quick Method): Use low power and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent overheating.
Avoid High Heat: Do NOT reheat on high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate and turn grainy.

Pro Tip: Add a small knob of butter when reheating to bring back creaminess.

3. How do you keep salmon moist when cooking?

To ensure moist, tender salmon, follow these tips:

Do not overcook! Remove salmon from heat when it reaches 125-130°F (52-55°C).
Use butter or olive oil – Keeps the salmon juicy and adds flavor.
Marinate or season before cooking – Helps retain moisture.
Let it rest – Allow 5 minutes of rest time after cooking to let juices redistribute.

Pro Tip: If baking, cover salmon loosely with foil for the first half of cooking to trap moisture.

4. How many days can you meal prep salmon?

Salmon is best when eaten within 2-3 days of cooking. After that, the texture and flavor start to degrade.

Refrigeration: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If meal prepping for the long term, freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months in a sealed bag.

Pro Tip: If meal prepping salmon pasta, keep the salmon and pasta separate until ready to eat—this prevents the pasta from becoming soggy.

Conclusion

Salmon pasta is a versatile, delicious, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer it creamy, spicy, light, or gluten-free, you can easily customize the recipe to match your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein, omega-3s, and vitamins.
Customizable – Works with different sauces, pasta types, and spice levels.
Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for a casual dinner or a fancy meal.

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and variations, it’s time to head to the kitchen and make your perfect salmon pasta! 🎉🍝🐟

Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta – Quick & Delicious

This creamy salmon pasta recipe is a rich and satisfying dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Made with flaked salmon, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic cream sauce, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Tongs (for tossing pasta)
• Colander (for draining pasta)

Ingredients

  

• For the Pasta:
• 12 oz 340g pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
• 1 tsp salt for boiling water
• For the Salmon:
• 2 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika optional
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• For the Creamy Sauce:
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup pasta water reserved
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add 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
• Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and flaky.
• Remove from the skillet, let it rest for 2 minutes, then flake into chunks using a fork.
• Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously for 2 minutes.
• Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese melts.
• Mix in lemon zest and lemon juice for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Step 4: Combine Everything
• Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
• Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
• Gently fold in the flaked salmon, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
• Step 5: Serve
• Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Use smoked salmon for a richer, smoky flavor.
If you prefer a non-dairy option, replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

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