Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta
Indulge in this Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta, a rich and comforting dish packed with tender salmon bites, silky parmesan cream sauce, and fresh spinach. This recipe combines the delicate flavors of salmon with a luscious garlic-infused sauce, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant meal to impress. The balance of creamy and savory flavors, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, makes this dish a must-try!
Time Required:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
200g fettuccine (or any pasta of choice)
2 salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup baby spinach
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta:
Boil salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
Sauté the salmon:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season salmon cubes with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Make the creamy sauce:
In the same pan, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
Add spinach & seasonings:
Stir in the baby spinach and red pepper flakes. Cook until the spinach wilts.
Combine everything:
Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Add salmon & serve:
Gently fold in the cooked salmon. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Salmon Pasta
- Use Fresh Salmon – Fresh salmon gives the best texture and flavor. However, you can use frozen salmon—just thaw it completely before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon – Cook salmon just until it flakes easily. Overcooked salmon can become dry and tough.
- Reserve Pasta Water – Adding a bit of pasta water to the sauce helps it coat the pasta beautifully.
- Adjust Creaminess – For a richer sauce, use heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter version, swap it with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Enhance with Lemon – A touch of lemon zest or juice brightens up the creamy sauce and balances the richness.
- Customize Your Greens – Spinach works great, but you can also use arugula or kale for a different twist.
- Add a Spicy Kick – A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a mild heat to contrast the creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use smoked salmon instead of fresh salmon?
Yes! Smoked salmon will add a stronger, saltier flavor. Just stir it into the sauce at the end since it doesn’t need cooking.
What’s the best pasta to use for this dish?
Fettuccine, linguine, or tagliatelle work best because they hold the creamy sauce well. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni also works!
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s consistency.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep by cooking the salmon and making the sauce ahead. Just reheat gently before serving.
Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta – Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: ~600-700 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~55g
Fats: ~30g
Saturated Fat: ~12g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~3g
Sodium: ~400mg
Nutritional Breakdown:
Salmon provides high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins like B12 and D.
Heavy cream & Parmesan contribute to the rich flavor but also add saturated fats. You can use half-and-half or a lighter alternative for a healthier version.
Spinach adds fiber, iron, and vitamins for a nutritious boost.
Pasta provides energy from carbohydrates, but whole wheat or chickpea pasta can be used for more fiber and protein.