Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta Recipe

When seafood meets pasta, the result is nothing short of magical. If you're a fan of tender, flaky salmon paired with creamy pasta, look no further. This delicious and easy-to-make creamy garlic salmon pasta will earn a spot in your weekly dinner rotation. Perfect for home cooks, seafood lovers, and pasta enthusiasts alike, this recipe is all about big flavor with minimal fuss. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes!

Why You'll Love This Salmon Pasta

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about what makes this dish special.

• Flavor Explosion: Creamy sauce infused with garlic, butter, and parmesan pairs beautifully with rich, savory salmon.
• Quick and Easy: No need to slave over the stove—this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weekday dinners.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with healthy omega-3s from the salmon and the carb bliss of pasta, it’s a meal that satisfies in every bite.

Ingredients You'll Need

For this incredible dish, gather the following ingredients from your pantry and fridge.

Salmon

• 2 skinless salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
• Salt and pepper to season
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pasta and Sauce

• 300g (10 oz) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work great!)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved when boiling the pasta)
• Juice of half a lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

It’s time to bring this comforting dish to life! Follow these straightforward steps for a show-stopping salmon pasta.

1. Cook the Pasta

• Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.

2. Pan-Sear the Salmon

• Pat the salmon fillets dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets.
• Sear the salmon for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Reduce the heat to medium-low and add butter to the same skillet where you cooked the salmon.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
• Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the parmesan cheese and whisk until fully melted into the sauce.
• For added flavor, sprinkle in the red chili flakes if desired.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
• Squeeze in the lemon juice for a zesty lift, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add the Salmon and Garnish

• Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces using a fork, then gently toss it into the pasta.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant, herby kick.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

• Dish up generous portions of creamy garlic salmon pasta and serve immediately. Feel free to top with extra parmesan for good measure!

Tips for the Perfect Salmon Pasta

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon if available for better flavor and texture.
• Control the Consistency: Adjust the sauce thickness to your preference by adding more or less pasta water.
• Pair with the Right Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements this dish beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Add baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra dimension and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it fully before cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor.

2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta will work, but long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine pair exceptionally well with creamy sauces.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet while adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce's consistency.

Bringing It All Together

There you have it—your new favorite dinner recipe! Creamy garlic salmon pasta is a decadent yet simple dish that will wow both your taste buds and your dinner guests. Plus, it packs a nutritious punch, making it an ideal choice for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Want more recipes like this to spice up your weekly meals? Be sure to check out our collection of scrumptious dishes that will transform your home cooking game!