Ever dream of a restaurant-worthy meal that transforms your weeknight into a culinary celebration? This recipe is not your average salmon with pasta – it’s a love song to simplicity, bursting with bold flavors that’ll have you swooning. Imagine, tender, flaky salmon bathed in a garlicky, buttery, lemon-kissed sauce, dancing atop perfectly al dente pasta. Each bite is an explosion of taste and texture, a chorus of savory, tangy, and fresh notes that leave you wanting more. Just take a look at this Salmon Scampi Recipe!
From the heart of Italian cuisine, this harmonious blend of salmon and pasta has become a favorite worldwide, showcasing the art of combining different culinary traditions into one delicious dish. Elevate your dining experience with this Salmon and Pasta recipe, where perfectly seared salmon fillets meet al dente pasta, drizzled with a luscious sauce bursting with the zesty freshness of lemon and garlic.
So, what are you waiting for? Ditch the takeout menus and whip up this culinary masterpiece in just 30 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how much wow factor comes from such basic ingredients. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, leaving you more time to savor the compliments (and maybe even seconds!).
Salmon and Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Pasta pot
- Colander
- Serving spoon
- Optional: Garlic press
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets skinless, about 6 ounces each
- 1 pound dried penne pasta or your favorite pasta shape
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup dry white wine optional
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Sear the salmon skin-side down for 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until just cooked through.Transfer the salmon to a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, until fully cooked and flaky.
- While the salmon bakes, cook the pasta according to package instructions.Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Time for the sauce magic!: Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- The grand finale!: Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water (a tablespoon at a time, if needed), and flaked salmon to the sauce.Toss everything together to coat evenly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream.
Keto-friendly: Use low-carb pasta and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Salmon with pasta: Simple Ingredients, Stellar Results
Pairing salmon with pasta can create a well-balanced meal that combines protein and carbohydrates. This dish can be further enhanced by adding fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for added flavor. Cooking salmon with pasta allows for a versatile and flavorful meal that can be easily customized with different sauces or seasonings. In addition, the combination of salmon and pasta provides a good mix of nutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.
This dish is not only a treat for the palate, but also nourishes the body with salmon’s omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. With the vibrant colors of the salmon, pasta and fresh herbs decorating your plate, each bite is a symphony of flavors that can easily be customized to your liking. Whether you are looking for a quick home-cooked meal or a nutritious option to satisfy your cravings, Salmon and Pasta is a winning combination that never fails to impress.
This versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights, date nights in, or even impressing guests with minimal effort. Here are some situations where this recipe shines:
Weeknight Wonder: Craving a restaurant-worthy meal without the wait? This recipe delivers! It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Date Night Delight: Looking for a romantic and flavorful dish to impress your special someone? This elegant yet approachable recipe sets the mood for a memorable evening.
Potluck Prowess: Need a dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser? This flavorful pasta is always a hit at potlucks and gatherings.
Recommended Pairing Drink:
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish’s light and citrusy notes. For a bolder option, try a Pinot Noir.
For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is refreshing and light.
Recommended Side Dish:
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Roasted asparagus or broccoli would also be delightful additions.
Useful Tips:
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! Cod, haddock, or shrimp would be delicious substitutes.
What if I don’t have white wine?
No problem! Use chicken broth or additional lemon juice instead.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The cooked pasta and sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and toss with fresh salmon before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use reduced-fat cream or even milk, but the sauce will be thinner.
Can I bake the salmon instead of searing it?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), season the salmon, and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
How do I know when the sauce is thickened enough?
Dip a spoon in the sauce and run your finger across it. If it leaves a clean line, the sauce is ready.
My sauce is too thin! what do I do?
Simmer it for a few more minutes or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it up.
Where can I find more recipe inspiration?
Right here! Check out my blog for more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. 🙂
Salmon and Pasta: A Pan-Seared Dream
This dish is popular for its combination of protein-rich salmon and carbohydrates from the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal. In this dish, salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection and then served over a bed of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. A sauce of butter, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs is drizzled over the salmon and pasta for a burst of flavor.
It perfectly combines the richness of salmon with the lightness of lemon and garlic for a delicious and satisfying meal. Salmon and Pasta offers a delightful combination of flavors, with the richness of salmon complemented by the lightness of lemon and garlic. The dish provides a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, which are beneficial for heart health.
The use of fresh herbs in the sauce adds a burst of freshness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. The dish is visually appealing with the vibrant colors of the salmon, pasta and herbs coming together beautifully on the plate. It is a versatile dish that can easily be customized by adding additional ingredients, such as vegetables or spices, to suit individual tastes.
The preparation of Salmon and Pasta is relatively quick and easy, making it a convenient option for a delicious home-cooked meal. In addition to being delicious, salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Ready to conduct your own culinary symphony? This Salmon Scampi Symphony is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experience the joy of cooking and the magic of creating delicious memories. So, grab your ingredients, turn up the heat, and get ready to be amazed by the flavor fiesta that awaits!
Remember, cooking is a journey, and this recipe is your guide. Embrace the process, have fun, and don’t be afraid to experiment. After all, the most important ingredient is your passion for creating something delicious.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/benefits-salmon
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/salmon-nutrition-and-health-benefits#1
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