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photo of person eating salmon with pasta

Salmon and Pasta Recipe

A Rustic Italian Dream on a Plate:
This Salmon Scampi Symphony isn't just a meal, it's an experience. Picture fluffy penne pasta cradling succulent salmon pieces, all enveloped in a rich, golden sauce that shimmers with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs.
Each forkful is a symphony of textures – the velvety sauce, the melt-in-your-mouth salmon, and the perfectly cooked pasta – all harmonizing in perfect balance. ✨ The vibrant aroma of garlic and lemon fills the air, whetting your appetite before you even take a bite.
And then, the explosion of flavors! Savory garlic, tangy lemon, and the delicate sweetness of the salmon create a masterpiece that's both comforting and exciting.
This dish is guaranteed to become a weeknight staple, leaving you feeling satisfied, happy, and ready to conquer anything!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Fish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

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

Nutritional Facts:
450 calories
30 grams of protein
25 grams of healthy fats
Carbs: 30g
Tweaks for Diets:
 Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
 Dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream.
 Keto-friendly: Use low-carb pasta and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Keyword pasta, Salmon