Salmon Pasta

There’s something magical about a homemade dish of Salmon Pasta that can instantly transport you to the coast, no matter where you are. I still remember the first time I crafted this dish; it was a rainy evening, and the aroma of fresh salmon wafted through my kitchen, bringing warmth and comfort. My family gathered around the table, eager to dig into a meal that not only looked beautiful but tasted divine. The combination of tender salmon, al dente fettuccine, and a creamy sauce made this dinner truly memorable. Each bite was a celebration of flavors, and I couldn’t help but smile seeing everyone enjoy it. Salmon Pasta has since become a staple in our home, perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions.

What You’ll Need for Salmon Pasta

Creating the perfect Salmon Pasta starts with quality ingredients. The combination of fresh salmon, vibrant broccoli, and creamy sauce contributes to a well-rounded dish. Each ingredient plays a critical role in achieving a harmonious flavor profile, making every bite a delight.

• 1 pound salmon fillets – The star of the show, wild-caught salmon provides a buttery flavor and flaky texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Adds a savory depth to the dish.
• 1/4 tsp paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness.
• 1/4 tsp onion powder – Complements the other spices perfectly.
• 1/4 tsp pepper – A touch of spice for balance.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cubed – Adds richness to the salmon.
• 3 cups broccoli florets – Fresh, vibrant greens for color and nutrition.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for drizzling and sautéing.
• 8 oz fettuccine – A classic pasta choice to soak up the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon butter – For flavoring the pasta.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – A fragrant base for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons flour – To thicken the sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth – A flavorful liquid base for the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – For a rich, creamy texture.
• 1/4 cup prepared pesto – Adds an herbaceous kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – To adjust the seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – For a fresh tang.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – A must-have for topping off the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Salmon Pasta

Cooking Salmon Pasta is a delightful experience that comes together effortlessly. Follow these steps to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress.

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This is essential for getting that perfect bake on the salmon and broccoli. The heat will help lock in the moisture and flavors.
2. Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve one cup of the pasta water before draining; it’s a secret ingredient for the sauce!
3. Toss the drained pasta with a drizzle of olive oil right after draining to prevent it from sticking together. Set it aside for later.
4. Prepare the salmon by placing it on a piece of foil, skin side down, and folding the foil up around it to create a boat—don’t seal it completely. This will help it steam but also get a nice roast. Place on a baking sheet.
5. Rub the salmon with your spice mixture of salt, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and pepper. Drizzle with lemon juice and top with cubes of butter.
6. Line the remaining portion of the baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Add the broccoli florets and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing to coat everything evenly. Spread them out in a single layer.
7. Place the salmon and broccoli in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon is nearly opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
8. While the seafood and veggies are baking, melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about thirty seconds until fragrant. This is the base of your creamy sauce!
9. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute. This cooking helps get rid of the raw flour taste.
10. Turn the heat down to low and slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream, pesto, and additional salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
11. Let it bubble gently until the sauce thickens, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. This step is key for creating a creamy texture that clings to the pasta.
12. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low, stir in more lemon juice, and fold in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
13. Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Flake the salmon into large chunks and add it to the mixture, allowing it to break up slightly as you toss. If it looks too dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water or additional cream.
14. Finally, give it a taste. Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or even more lemon juice as needed.

Tips and Tricks about Salmon Pasta

Mastering Salmon Pasta can be a breeze with the right tips. Here are some insights to elevate your cooking experience:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the salmon.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce separately. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the mix.
• Serving Style: Serve your Salmon Pasta garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added touch.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the sauce ahead of time, and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up when you’re ready to mix in the pasta and salmon.
• Cooking Tools: Use a large pot for boiling pasta and a heavy skillet for making the sauce. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

Serve This Salmon Pasta With

When it comes to serving Salmon Pasta, there are numerous delightful options to enhance your dining experience. Here are some suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
• White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine can complement the flavors beautifully, making for a sophisticated meal.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables alongside the dish can add both nutrition and color to your table.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for guests to add a refreshing kick as they desire.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that can please any crowd.
• Leftover Usage: Leftovers can be creatively transformed into a pasta salad by adding cold ingredients and a dressing!

FAQ

Conclusion

This Salmon Pasta recipe is truly special, combining the rich flavor of salmon with a creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. I encourage you to try making it yourself; you’ll not only enjoy the cooking process but also delight in the delicious meal that follows. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Salmon Pasta

The ultimate comfort food! This Salmon Pasta combines fresh salmon, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies. Enjoy a taste of the coast tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound salmon fillets
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cubed
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 oz fettuccine
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup prepared pesto
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Frying pan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve one cup of the pasta water before draining.
3. Toss the drained pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Set aside.
4. Add the salmon to a piece of foil, skin side down, and fold the foil up around the salmon to create a boat. Place on a baking sheet.
5. Rub the salmon with the spice mixture and drizzle with lemon juice, then top with cubes of butter.
6. Line the remaining portion of the baking sheet with foil and add the broccoli. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
7. Bake the salmon and broccoli at 400 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes.
8. While they are baking, melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about thirty seconds.
9. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute.
10. Turn the heat down to low and slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream, pesto, and additional salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth.
11. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let bubble until thickened, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
12. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low, stir in more lemon juice, and fold in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
13. Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
14. Flake the salmon into large chunks and add it to the mixture, allowing it to break up slightly as you toss.
15. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Notes

Use wild-caught salmon for the best flavor. Remove from the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking for even cooking. Salt your pasta water generously for best flavor and don’t overcook your pasta. Let the dish rest briefly before serving to enhance flavors.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.