Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta 🍣🍣

This Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta recipe is the perfect combination of tender salmon, rich creamy sauce, and flavorful garlic that will elevate your pasta game to the next level. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply want to indulge in a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe will hit the spot!

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets, cut into chunks

  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

  • Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta:
    Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help thicken the sauce later.

  2. Prepare the salmon:
    While your pasta is cooking, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon chunks and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

  3. Make the creamy garlic sauce:
    In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden (be careful not to burn it!).

  4. Create the cream sauce:
    To the garlic, add the heavy cream and chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

  5. Add the flavor:
    Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice for a fresh and tangy kick. This will brighten up the sauce and balance the richness of the cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

  6. Combine the pasta and salmon:
    Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic sauce. Gently fold in the cooked salmon chunks, being careful not to break them apart too much. If the sauce needs thinning, add a little more pasta water.

  7. Finish with cheese and garnish:
    Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss everything together until the cheese melts and creates a luscious, creamy texture. For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a slight heat boost.

  8. Serve:
    Serve the creamy garlic salmon pasta on a large plate or bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added freshness.

  9. Enjoy:
    Your Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta is ready to enjoy! Serve with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Tips & Notes:

  • Salmon substitution: If you don’t have fresh salmon, you can use canned salmon or even substitute with another fish like trout or cod.

  • Make it spicier: For those who love a bit of heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

  • Vegetarian version: Skip the salmon and opt for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to create a vegetarian version of this dish.

  • Creamy variations: If you prefer an even creamier texture, you can add a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce to make it richer.

  • Pasta choice: While fettuccine is the recommended pasta here, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne.

  • Meal prep: This recipe is great for meal prepping! You can cook the salmon and pasta in advance, store them separately, and reheat the sauce and pasta just before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health and brain function.

  • Garlic has many health benefits, including boosting immunity and reducing inflammation.

  • The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provide a rich, indulgent flavor, but you can reduce calories by using lighter cream options or less cheese if preferred.

Why This Recipe Works:

This Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta works so well because it balances richness with freshness. The garlic cream sauce coats the pasta perfectly, while the salmon adds a healthy dose of protein and omega-3s. The lemon adds just the right amount of acidity to cut through the creaminess, making this dish feel indulgent yet fresh. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves creamy, flavorful pasta dishes and wants to add a healthy twist with the inclusion of salmon. Whether you are trying it for the first time or are already a fan of creamy pasta recipes, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

So go ahead and give this Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of tender salmon, silky cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the perfect dinner to impress your family or guests! Enjoy! 😋🍝

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